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RELiaULE BALDWINMNJl: 



SELECTIONS 



FROM THE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE LATE 



WILLIAM BALDWIN, M. D. 

SURGEON IN THE U. S. NAVY. 



WITH OCCASIONAL NOTES, AND A SHORT BIOGRAPHICAL 
MEMOIR. 



COMPILED BY WILLIAM DARLINGTON, M. D, 



Manibus date lilia plenis : 
Purpureos spargam flores, animamque Sodalis 
His saltern accumulem donis, et fungar inani _ _ 

Munere. ,^i ™ COfl^ 

5867 



/ PHILADELPHIA: 
KIMBER AND SHARPLESS. 
1843. 



o*' 



cm 



W5 



"B25 



Coty 



I 



[Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1843, in the 
Clerk's office of tho District Court of the Eastern District of Penn- 
sylvania.] 



E. C. DARLINGTON, PRINTER, 
LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA. 



/V7 



TO ASA GRAY, M. D. 

My Dear Sir: 

Among the various topics of 
Botanical interest, discussed during your recent most 
acceptable visit to this place, it was suggested by you, 
that it was due to the memory and deserts of the late 
Doctor Baldwin, that a notice of his zealous and inde- 
fatigable labors, in the cause of American Botany, 
should be prepared by some contemporary, who had a 
personal knowledge of his worth, as a Man, — and who 
might possess evidences of his extraordinary devotion 
to that department of our Natural History. 

You were pleased to intimate, that the advantages 
which I had enjoyed, of a long acquaintance, and a 
familiar correspondence with my lamented Friend, 
might perhaps enable me to contribute something to- 
wards the performance of that duty. Sensible as I was, 
and am, of my inadequacy to the task, I will yet confess 
to you that the suggestion touched a responsive chord in 
my bosom. I had long felt, that the estimable character 
of Doctor Baldwin — no less than his laudable exertions 
as a Naturalist — gave him strong claims to the affection- 
ate remembrance of every kindred spirit; while his rare 
industry and sagacity entitled him to take rank with the 
most deserving of our Pioneers in the field of American 
Botany. 

Strongly impressed with this feeling, — and having 
waited for more than twenty years without seeing any 



appropriate tribute to the memory of my friend, — I am 
tempted to act upon your kind intimation; and, with 
such materials a^ are in my ponemon, submit my hum- 
ble offering with the best grace that I may. 

The incidents in the life of Doctor Baldwin « 
neither so remarkable, qoi so numerous, as to : 
voluminous narrative. The Biographical Memoir will 
therefore be brief. Bat I have availed mysell 
ous extracts from his correspondence! during the I 
years of his life, — which, unless I am misled by i 
appreciation of them, frill, L think, be d more 

satisfactory, and w ill better illustrate the true chars 

Of the man, than ai nut which could be furni>h»-d 

by the partial hand of friendship. They present ■ \ 
ety of intelligence, mixed up with passing remarks, and 
characteristic sentinients, — and all uttered with a warm- 
hearted frankness, and f, which remind I the 

charming Lett. id father 1 r, from the 

/ nit. 

The livel] interest which attach lie minutis 

Auto-biography, is universally acknowledged: \ 

seems to me, that the free, lull, and confiding effusions 
of the heart, — poured forth on « icy asifl 

occurs, without th<' most distant idea of their ever b< 
seen by a third pers< >n, — present i» more faithful deli] 
tion of the writer's mind, and of all its attributes, than 
even the must ample details of self-wri t ten 
These Letters, mor . will give the i 
ble notion of the movements, and pursuits 
Baldwin — as well as of his Indomitable p 
in his favorite studies — during the most interesting peri- 
od of his life. The number of his Letter —during 
that period of infirm health, and manifold engagements, 
will indicate the industry with which he applied him 
I received from him upwards of fifty Letters, within the 
last three years of his life — some of them of great 



length; — while his numerous other correspondents were 
by no means neglected. 

Nothing further appears requisite — either to a just 
estimate of his intellectual energies, or to a due appre- 
ciation of the amiable simplicity of his character. Ac- 
cordingly, I have added little, except a few occasional 
notes, (included within brackets, J explanatory of the 
allusions in the Letters.* 

To the lovers of Nature — and to the admirers of na- 
tive worth — these characteristic Remains of my excellent 
Friend are respectfully inscribed, by 

WM. DARLINGTON. 
West Chester, Penn'a. 

February 13, 1841. 



*The notices of Dr. B.'s movements, and observations in Florida, 
contained in his later correspondence, were so interesting to me, 
that I suggested to him, while he was in that region — and on his 
return to the North, urged the project, of his drawing up a more 
complete account of the country, and its productions, in the form of 
familiar Letters, with a view to publication. After some hesitation, 
he acceded to the proposition, — and had made some progress in the 
work — as his health and engagements permitted — until it was finally 
interrupted by the reception of orders to prepare for the Exploring 
Expedition, under Major Long. The Sketch was, of course, left in 
an unfinished state: But, having recently had access to the original, 
I have ventured to transcribe and annex a portion of it to the other 
Epistolary remains. This may serve to explain the repeated allusions, 
in his correspondence, to the Floridian Letters. 

1* 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 



WILLIAM BALDWIN— Son of Thomas Baldwin, a 
respectable member of the Society of Friends, and an 
approved Minister in that Society — was born in the 
Township of Newlin, County of Chester, and State of 
Pennsylvania, on the 29th of March, 1779. He received 
no other than the common English education afforded 
by the country schools, — which, at that day, were of 
very moderate pretensions : But he evinced at an early 
age, an eager desire for knowledge, — and, as one of the 
readiest modes of gratifying that desire — by the oppor- 
tunities afforded for study — he became, himself, the 
teacher of a country school, in the vicinity of his birth- 
place. After some time spent in that arduous and hon- 
orable vocation, — which rather stimulated than satisfied 
his appetite for scientific attainments, — he turned his 
attention to the Profession of Medicine, This Profes- 
sion — so comprehensive in its scope, and which has 
been aptly termed "the eye of all the Sciences/' — was 
admirably suited to one so accurate in his observations, 
and so humane in his disposition, as William Baldwin. 
He accordingly became the pupil of Dr. William A. 
Todd, then a popular and extensive Practitioner of Med- 
icine in the Village of Downingtown, Chester County. 
He attended his first course of Medical Lectures, at the 
University of Pennsylvania, in the winter of 1802-3 : at 
which time I was his class-mate, — and first formed that 
acquaintance with him, which subsequently ripened in- 
to an intimate friendship, to be terminated only with 



8 

his life. The singular benevolence of his character, I 
had an opportunity to experience soon after the forma- 
tion of our acquaintance. Early in the course, it was 
my misfortune to have a severe attack of disease, which 
confined me for some time to my solitary chamber, in a 
boarding-house. My class-mates, generally, had their 
studies, or their amusements, to engage their attention ; 
and even those who personally knew mc, and \> 
a friendly regard, probably never took a thought of the 
cause of my absence from my scat. But not so with 
my friend Baldwin. His sympathies with affli 
were always ready for action. He promptly Bought me 
out — devoted to me every hour he could command, in 
the intervals of Lectures — and oighl and day, during 
my illness, like a ministering angel, \\ as hovering round 
my bed with all the solacing attentions of the kindest 
Nurse and Physician. Such acts afford the surest 
dences of real character, — and can be appreciated by 
none so well, as those who have felt their soothing in- 
fluences. At the conclusion of his first course ol I 
tures in the University, young Baldwin returned to the 
office of bis Preceptor, in Downingtown. His strait 
means prevented him from returning, the ensuing win- 
ter, to the University, and necessarily postponed the 
period when he could receive the honors of the Institu- 
tion, — to which he ardently aspired; although but 
country students, in Pennsylvania, at that day, had ven- 
tured to do so. He then-tore remained a year or two 
longer with Dr. Todd, as an Assistant in his practice j — 
a portion of the time residing in the County of York, on 
the west side of the river Susquehanna, — whither the 
Doctor removed, in 1803. 

While a resident in Downingtown — and subsequently 
at his father's, in the vicinity, Baldwin had become in- 
timate with the late Dr. Moses Marshall, — nephew and 
heir of Humphry Marshall, the well-known author of 



9 

the "Arbustum Americanum" and founder of the Botanic 
Garden at Marshallton. This gentleman was a respect- 
able Botanist, and had materially assisted his uncle, — 
both in the establishment of his Garden, and in the pre- 
paration of his work on American Forest Trees and 
Shrubs. In the society of Dr. Marshall, Baldwin had 
his taste for the study of the vegetable creation first 
awakened ; and the means of gratifying it were amply 
afforded by the rich collection of indigenous plants, 
then growing in the Marshallton Botanic Garden, This 
circumstance undoubtedly gave a decided bias to his 
future pursuits ; and illustrates well the happy influence 
of such institutions, and opportunities, in developing 
the latent powers and aptitudes of ingenuous Youth. — 
He was also indebted — in common with many others, of 
that day — for a portion of his Botanical zeal, to the late 
Prof. Benjamin Smith Barton, of Philadelphia, — who 
did much in giving an impulse to the study of Natural 
History, in the United States, 

In the year 1805, although not yet an M. D. my friend 
felt that he was competent to engage independently in 
the practice of the healing art. He therefore sought 
and obtained the appointment of Surgeon to a Mer- 
chant Ship, which was about to sail from Philadelphia 
for Canton, by the way of Antwerp. This was a novel 
enterprise for a young Physician, who had been trained 
in the habits of country seclusion, — and was calculated 
to exhibit, in a strong light, the rustic naivete, and inex- 
perience, of the fresh-water Surgeon. A gentleman 
who sailed in the same ship (and whom I subsequently 
met, in India,) — after pronouncing the warmest eulogy 
on the professional skill, and amiable qualities, of the 
Doctor, — assured me, among other characteristic anec- 
dotes, that our Chester County Surgeon had taken so 
little forethought concerning his new position, as actu- 
ally to embark on that long and tedious voyage with 
only three shirts in his wardrobe ! Nothing could be 



10 

more illustrative of the child-like simplicity of the man. 
Such was the devotion and singleness of purpose, man- 
ifested in all his undertakings, that he never seemed to 
think of subordinate, or incidental matters ; and least 
of all, of those relating to his own personal conve- 
nience. 

On his return from China, in 1806, he found his cir- 
cumstances so much improved, that he could afford to 
attend another course of Medical Lectures, — and thus 
qualify himself for a Diploma. He accordingly enti 
the University of Pennsylvania for the winter com- 
1806-7, — passed his examination with credit, in the 
spring, — and, on the 10th day of April, 1S)7, received 
the degree of Doctor of Medicine. The title of his In- 
augural Thesis, was, "A short practical Narrative of the 
Diseases which prevailed among the American Seamen, at 
Wampoa, in China, in the year 1*05; wit 
Diseases which appeared among th 8 \ 

Jersey, on the passage from thence to Ph&adelphi 

Having now obtained the highest honors of the first 
Medical School in the country, Dr. B.\u»v. it to 

Wilmington, in the State of Delaware, where he com- 
menced the practice of his Profession ; and soon after- 
wards was married to Miss Hannah M.Webster, of that 
Borough, — a lady of superior intellectual endowments, 
and whose education had received a classical finish 
quite unusual among American Females at that day. — 
During his residence in Wilmington, Dr. B. empl< 
his leisure hours in the investigation of the Plain 
that vicinity : and, moreover, became engaged in a Bo- 
tanical correspondence with the late Rev. Henry Muh- 
lenberg, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, which he kept 
up with great interest, and advantage to himself, until 
the death of that eminent and accomplished Botanist.* 

* Having unexpectedly obtained possession of that correspondence 
since the present notice was written, I am happy in being able to 
insert the principal portion of it among these remains: and shall 



11 

Doctor Baldwin's constitution was always frail. — 
There was an hereditary predisposition to Pulmonary 
Consumption, which pervaded the whole family, — who 
were all finally swept away by that insidious destroyer. 
In the autumn of 1811, the Doctor's health became so 
delicate that he determined to seek a refuge from the 
severity of our northern winters ; and thereupon he re- 
moved to the State of Georgia. He resided chiefly at 
Savannah and St. Mary's. Here he found himself in a 
new and most interesting field for Botanical research, — 
in which he engaged with untiring zeal and persever- 
ance. With a knapsack on his back, he made several 
journeys on foot, and sometimes entirely alone, far 
within the territory of the Indians : and such was his 
gentle, inoffensive demeanor, among these Children of 
the Forest, that he completely secured their good will, 
and uniformly experienced from them the kindest and 
most friendly treatment. His humane disposition pre- 
disposed him to a favorable estimate of the Aboriginal 
character : he sympathised deeply with the wrongs and 
privations suffered by the native Proprietors of the Wil- 
derness: and the result of his intercourse with them, 
was a firm conviction that they were a race "more sin- 
ned against, than sinning*" This sentiment pervaded 
all his conversation, and correspondence, — whenever 
he had occasion to refer to these unfortunate tribes. — 
Indeed, such was the benevolence of his nature, that I 
can truly say, there was more unalloyed philanthropy- 
more of the genuine "milk of human kindness" — in the 
composition of Doctor Baldwin, than in any man it 
was ever my happiness to know. 

On the 18th of June, 1812, a few months after the re- 
moval of Dr. B, to the South, war was declared between 
the United States and G-reat Britain : and in the course 
confess myself disappointed, if it do not endear the memory of both 
the amiable writers, to every true lover of the Science to which they 
were devoted. 



12 

of that year, the medical services of the Doctor \vr 
put in requisition by the Navy Department. Nothing 
could be less congenial with his temperament, or with 
those habits of peaceful thought and action induced by 
his education, than the turmoil incident to a state of 
war: But, the necessity of some employment by which 
he could support his young and growing family in a 
community of strangers, and his readiness under all 
circumstances to minister to the sick and distressed, — to 
say nothing of his patriotic feelings, which were alwfi 
ardent,— prevailed with him to accept the appointment 
of Surgeon in the Navy of the United Stat 

The following extract of a letter from Mrs. Baldwin, 
dated December 30, 1819, — addressed to the writer 
this, at the time an eit'ort was being made, in Coi 
to procure a pension for the Doctor's family, — ail 
brief outline of his services during the war: — "In Mb 
1812, Dr. Baldwin went to St. Mary's, and acted a little 
while (say two months) as Burgeon's mate with Dr. 
Dandridgk, — though he never had a commission, as 
mate. Dr. Dandridgk, died, — as you know the dim; 
is extremely unhealthy ; and two or three Surgeons had 
died in succession in a very short time. After I 1 
dridge's death, the whole responsibility devolved on 
him, without any mate to assist him. He then acted as 
Surgeon, receiving Surgeon's pay. In October, he ob- 
tained leave of absence to come on to Wilmington, and 
hired a Surgeon in his place, — which the Navy rules did 
not require of him, and tor which he never received 
any compensation. On his way to Wilmington, he 
stopped at Washington, and Paul Hamilton [Secretary 
of the Navy] gave him a Commission, dated October 
22, 1812. Some time after, there waus another sent on 
to him, at St. Mary's, signed by William Jones [then 
Secretary] and dated 24th July, 1813. He was stationed 
at St. Mary's two years and six months; and for a con- 



13 

siderable part of that time he neither had mate nor lob- 
lolly boy. The one resigned, and the other died: a 
great many on the sick list — the weather extremely sul- 
try — he scarcely had time to rest night or day, — not- 
withstanding I did all in my power to assist him, in mix- 
ing and putting up medicine. He was stationed two 
years in Savannah." — During his residence at the 
South, — and particularly while at Savannah, after the 
close of the war, — he established an intimate corres- 
pondence with Stephen Elliott, Esq. the distinguished 
author of the Sketch of the Botany of South Carolina and 
Georgia; to which work — as its pages amply testify — 
he furnished copious and valuable materials. 

Towards the end of the year 1816, Dr. Baldwin sent 
his family to Wilmington, Delaware (the native place 
of Mrs. B.) — while he remained at the South during the 
ensuing winter and spring — chiefly engaged in explor- 
ing the botanical treasures of East Florida. About this 
time, a long-suspended correspondence with the writer 
of this was resumed, — which was actively continued 
until the close of the Doctor's life. This correspon- 
dence — or rather the Doctor's share of it, — of which a 
large portion is hereto annexed, — affords a full and 
faithful account of his movements ; and therefore leaves 
but little to add to this hasty and imperfect Sketch. 

Dr. Baldwin's reputation, as a Botanist, induced the 
Government to select him, in 1817, to accompany Messrs. 
Rodney, Graham and Bland, in the U. S. Frigate Con- 
gress, on a mission to Buenos Ayres, and other South 
American ports, for the purpose of ascertaining the 
condition and prospects of the Spanish Colonists, who 
were then struggling to establish their independence 
of the mother country. He went as Surgeon of the 
ship; and the prominent incidental object of his ap- 
pointment was to investigate the vegetable productions 
of the places which might be visited during the voyage. 
In the performance of this collateral duty — notwith* 



14 

standing the feeble state of his health — he was most as- 
siduous, and eminently successful. Being a zealous 
Republican, he also sympathized deeply with the Colo- 
nists, — and, as his letters demonstrate, took a lively 
interest in their efforts (which, alas ! have hitherto been 
but too abortive) to establish a free and rational system 
of government. 

On his return from South America, in 1818, Dr. Bald- 
win passed the remainder of that year chiefly with his 
family, in Wilmington, — making occasional excursions, 
for the benefit of his health, among his friends in Ch< 
County. His time, when at home, was principally de- 
voted to the examination and description of the new 
plants he had collected at the South. These descrip- 
tions, however, were never entirely completed, — e.\ 
a couple of papers which were published about that 
time; one in Silliman's Journal — and the Other in the 
American Philosophical Transactions These labors 
were finally interrupted, in the early part of the ensuing 
year, by his appointment, as Surgeon and Botanist, to 
accompany Major Long's Expedition up the river Mis- 
souri. His health was totally unequal to this undertak- 
ing: But, both he and his friends indulged the delusive 
hope, that it might possibly be improved by such an 
excursion, — and he embarked in it with all his charac- 
teristic enthusiasm. His strength, however, failed him, 
ere the expedition was fairly under way ; and he died 
at Franklin, on the banks of the Missouri, on the first 
day of September, 1819, in the forty-first year of his age. 
His gentle spirit forsook its frail tenement, in a region 
far remote from his anxious family, — and the wild flow- 
ers of the West, for more than twenty years, have been 
blooming on his lonely grave : But the recollection of 
his virtues continues to be fondly cherished by every 
surviving friend, — and his ardor in the pursuit of his 
favorite Science will render his memory forever dear to 

the true lovers of American Botany. 

W. D. 



CORRESPONDENCE 

OF 

DR. BALDWIN WITH DR. MUHLENBERG. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, [Penn'a.] January 7, 1811. 

Sir: Will you forgive me, if I, as a stranger, intrude 
upon your studies, and beg your acquaintance ! Doctor 
Hiester, the present physician of the Lazaretto, informs 
me that you are a great friend of Botany. I have been 
the same for near forty years ; and have collected, of 
American Plants in particular, whatever I could get. 
The State of Delaware, alone, amongst all others, has 
contributed nothing to my Herbarium ; and I am certain 
it contains many new and curious plants. This, a for- 
mer acquaintance of mine, Mr. Rafinesque, has in- 
formed me of; and Mr. William Hamilton, of the 
Woodlands, confirms his information. 

I have seen part of Mr. Rafinesqtte's Catalogue, — 
amongst the plants he mentions, several were new to 
me ; — as Uniola paniculata, Zizania miliacea, Hydrocotyle 
ficarioides, Hopea tinctoria, Sida rhombifolia, Astragalus 
Carolinianus, Jacobaea tomentosa and lyrata, Helianthus 
lanceolatus, Viola rotundifolia, Veratrum nigrum, Melan- 
thium racemosum, Blechnum Virginicum, <5fc. 

Mr. Rafinesque was rather too quick in naming the 
plants, and may have been mistaken in some names ; 
but it is very likely that you have many plants, hitherto 
only discovered in the Southern States. Will you, my 
dear sir, for love of the Science, receive my tender of a 



16 

nearer acquaintance! I will send you whatever we 
have in our parts, not common with you, — and you can 
send me the plants not to be found here. All Gra 
and Cryptogamia are my favorites. Of grasses and 
calamarious plants, I have about 320 different q 
but still a few, even of Michaux's plants, are wanting: 
In particular, his Zizania miliaria (the clavirulnsa we 
have,) a few Schoeni, and a few Carices. Water plants 
you have in abundance — being so near the water: we, 
at Lancaster, have but few. 

Perhaps you have seen my Index Flora? Isincaslriniti*, 
printed formerly in the Philosophical Transactions of 
Philadelphia. Choose amongst Ihe plants there men- 
tioned, and you are welcome to any. If you have any 
Catalogue of your plants, pray let me have it; or take 
your own choice, and favor me with specimens you 
think curious, not described, or doubtful. Anything i 
can do, to clear up the doubts, shall be done with 
pleasure. 

The plants we exchange, we will number 1, 2, 3, <kc. 
This will make a future correspondence easy; and our 
mutual observations will be better understood. I pro- 
pose to send whatever I have, to Philadelphia, to John 
Musser, No. 140, Race Street, — who is an Inspector of 
the Custom House, and will find many opportunities to 
Wilmington. If you are pleased to direct your packets 
to him, he will forward them with care to me, by the 
mail coach, or other opportunity. 

Much pleasure I anticipate, and some good for the 
Science, from such a correspondence. Will you fa 
me with an answer, when convenient! Accept mv betft 
wishes for your health and prosperity ; and believe me 
to be with great esteem, 

Sir, your most obedient humble servant, 

HENRY MUHLENBERG. 
Dr. Baldwin, 

At Wilmington % DeL 



17 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. January 14, 1811. 

My Dear Sir: The letter which you have honored 
me with was received in due time ; but unavoidable cir- 
cumstances have prevented my replying earlier. 

I feel myself under great obligations to Dr. Hiester, 
for the respectful manner in which he has made mention 
of my name to you, — as I rejoice in the prospect of a 
nearer acquaintance with a gentleman whose celebrity, as 
a practical Botanist, is so well established in the scien- 
tific world. I anxiously hope that your expectations 
may not be formed too highly respecting me,— as I am 
a mere tyro in Botanical Science : and with the Gramina 
and the Cryptogamia I am the least acquainted. 

When I attended the Botanical Lectures of Professor 
Barton, in the year 1806, I derived but little informa- 
tion respecting these two vast and important families of 
plants; and was induced to consider the investigation 
of the former, in particular, as extremely difficult. But 
last spring, while engaged in giving a popular course of 
Lectures on this charming science, I found it necessary 
to attend more particularly to the grasses ; and then it 
was, that I regretted, most sincerely, my want of an ac- 
quaintance with you. I had seen your Index Florae Lan- 
castriensis, but I sought in vain to obtain it, — and was 
informed that all the early volumes of the Philosophical 
Transactions were sold. Nothing but the necessity of 
attending closely to my professional engagements, after 
having taken a hasty tour through the Peninsula, could 
have prevented me from riding to Lancaster, in order to 
avail myself of your extensive information, and to pro- 
cure, if possible, your Flora. Judge then, my dear sir, 
of the happiness you have conferred upon me, by solic- 
iting my correspondence ; and rest assured, that how- 



18 

ever indifferently qualified I may be for fulfilling your 
request, I shall serve you with an ardent and a heart-felt 
zeal. 

I have a Catalogue, — but it is too imperfect for your 
inspection : But when the season of blossoms again ar- 
rives — should I be favored with life and health — I will 
endeavor to transmit to you, in regular succession, the 
plants of my vicinity that you may be interested in ;— 
and in the mean time, when opportunity offers, I will 
send you some old specimens. I hope I shall be able 
to send some of the plants you have mentioned, 
covered and named by Mr. Rafinesquk; and perhaps 
some others that escaped his notice. This indefatigable 
Botanist has, perhaps, independent of his new d 
ries, unnecessarily changed some of the Linnacan 
names * 

Not having your Index, &C, I cannot make a proper 
selection from it: But few of your greases, fa 
would come amiss. Some species of the following 
Genera I think you possess, which I should be glad to 
receive, viz: Cynosurus, Fcstuca, Poa % Cyperui and 
Stipa. I have a species of Xyrit, and I think the 
cristata, and a species of Milium, in my collection, — as 
well as some species of Schocnus. We have a 
of Ranunculus which does not appear to be described: 
and it may not be known to you that the Ranunculus 
Lingua of Linn, [doubtless R. Flammula, L.] grows 
abundantly in our marshes. A large species i A Orobanck* % 
which I take to be the O. major of Linn, is to be found 
on the Brandywinc, within a mile of the borough. — I 
shall be very happy to see the Muhlenberg ia ; and would 
thank you also for a specimen of the Marshallia, and the 
Hydrastis Canadensis. 

I am so unfortunate as not to be in possession of 

*[A practice which he most wantonly and mischievously perse- 
vered in, to the end of his days.] 



19 

Michaux's works, — although I am acquainted with a 
considerable number of his plants. I procured Tur- 
ton's Linnaeus last spring ; but was much mortified to 
find that, although it was published as late as 1806, it did 
not contain a single plant of Michaux. — I shall furnish 
you with a number of plants that are to me doubtful ; but 
which may nevertheless be described, — as I have never 
yet been able to avail myself of all the aid necessary to 
prosecute the Science of Botany to advantage:* But, 
viewing you in the light of a Preceptor, with the advan- 
tage of your correspondence, I shall renew my studies 
with redoubled ardor ; and perhaps you can inform me 
where to obtain your Index &c. and other works, calcu- 
lated to facilitate my progress in this delightful branch 
of Natural History. 

That your useful life may be extended, and that every 
blessing may attend you, is the sincere wish of 

Sir, your sincerely affectionate friend, 

WILLIAM BALDWIN. 
H. Muhlenberg, D. D. 

Lancaster, Pa. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, January 18, 1811. 
Dear Sir : I was exceedingly pleased to see by your 
letter, that you are willing to accept my offer of a 

* [The young American Botanists, of the present day, can have 
but a faint idea of the privations, and disadvantages, under which 
the students of that Science labored, in our country, at the date of 
this letter. Nothing but a perfect enthusiasm in the pursuit, could 
in any degree supply the want of that aid which is now within the 
reach of all.] 



20 

nearer acquaintance ; and I anticipate much pleasure 
on both sides. 

Willingly would I send you my Index Florae Lancas- 
triensis, but I have it only in the Transactions. If I can 
get a printer, I have a MS ready several years, contain- 
ing in two fascicles — I. a Catalogue of the hitherto 
known Phanerogamous Plants of N. America, in col- 
umns containing the Linnean and English Nai 
Calyx, Corolla, Fruit, Habitat, and time of flowering, 
II. The Cryptogamous Plants. I daily add to it, and 
think it might be useful. 

You have, no doubt, a number of new plants. Your 
Ranunculus Flammula I have seen — Chough Bcaicer with 
us: the other one I wish to see, — as also your Milium, 
Aira cristata, and whatever you find dubious, or i 
Extremely happy I would be, if we could make a 
excursions together. The sight of the living plant is 
more satisfactory than a dried specimen, or the 
description. It you wish to know Qrtn Bd what- 

ever you find, numbered^ — keep the same number in 
your Herbarium, and in our year you will know the 
most of them. It is the same with Mosses and Lichens. 
They seem to be a difficult order; but are soon known. 
The study of them is very pleasfeig, 

I make a beginning to send you (wrasses, numbered, — ■ 
of each genus one species, to get the habit They are 
chiefly American ; but a few exotics I had to add, where 
the genus was wanting with us. 

The Hydrastis Canadensis, L. we have in plenty. The 
root is yellow, and might prove to be a valuable dye. 
It is easily propagated by the root ; but with difficulty 
by the seed. The Marshallia, if I read the name rightly, 
is a southern plant, — of which I have an unique, indif- 
ferent specimen. Walter describes it by the name of 
Athanasia. Michaux names it Persoonia. Marshallia is 
Schreber's, and the oldest, name. We ought to be 



21 

jealous for our American names. Why should we have 
the trouble of finding, and other nations the honor! 

You have, no doubt, many water plants, — especially 
Confervae. Those are very little known, and need a 
close examination. For Mosses, the present season is 
best. They are best distinguished when the operculums 
ready to fall, and the peristoma beginning to show itself. 
The Lichens we can often find at the fireside ; and I have 
gathered a good number, just before I put the wood in 
the stove, or on the fire. 

For this time, I send my small packet of 53 Grasses 
to Philadelphia, in hopes that it can be conveyed to 
Wilmington, either by a travelling friend, or by the 
stage. Do you know of any better opportunity] 

With the sincerest esteem I remain, 

Dear Sir, your most obedient humble servant, 

H. M. 

P. S. As you have not Michaux, I will extract, from 
his Flora, his Grasses, — marking such as I have not seen. 
[As a matter of curiosity, those species, in the list, which 
were then unknown to Dr. M. are here enumerated: viz. 
Eriophorum Hudsoniunum, Alopecurus aristulatus, Paspa- 
lum plicatulum, Schoenus ciliaris, Fuirena scirpoidea, 
Stipa juncea, Tripsacum cylindricum, Aira melicoides, 
Festuca poaeoides, F. diandra, Briza Canadensis, Avena 
striata, Zizania miliacea, Z.fluitans, Manisuris granuU 
aris, Juncus melanocarpus, Carex scirpoidea, C. subulata, 
Sparganium angusti folium.] 



22 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del February 19, 1811. 

Dear Sir: This will be delivered to you by Dr. A- 
Perlee, a medical gentleman of high respectability, 

whose object in visiting Lancaster is to look out fur a 
permanent establishment in his profession. Any ser- 
vice, therefore, which you may render him, I shall 
gratefully acknowledge. 

I received your valuable communication on the 14th 
inst. which is far from being compensated by the little 
return I now make you. I can only console mj 
with a hope, that during the ensuing spring and summer 
I shall be able to remunerate you, in some degree, by 
transmitting fresh specimens of all the Grasses, as well 
as other plants, which I may procure. In the Aira cris* 
lata, I believe I have been mistaken, — ^s well as in 
some others; but am happy to find that some of the 
genera which you have transmitted, I had previously 
investigated with success. I cannot send you the Mil- 
ium until I procure a fresh specimen. In this, also, I 
may be mistaken, — as it had done flowering when I 
met with it last season. I wish likewise to obtain J 
specimens of all the species of Ranunculus that I have 
not met with in Pennsylvania; which I shall transmit 
together. 

I have many more dried specimens to send ; but have 
not leisure, at present, — as the bearer is waiting to de- 
part. They shall therefore be sent, on the first oppor- 
tunity. I was likewise laboring under a pneumonic 
affection when I received your packet, — from which I 
have not yet recovered. 

I am your obliged friend. 

J W. B. 



23 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, February 22, 1811. 

Dear Sir : I had the pleasure to receive your letter, 
and the dried specimens, by Dr. Perlee. The Doctor 
pleases me much, and I wish him much success. In 
Lancaster we have at least a dozen of physicians, good 
and bad ; and if it were not for the neighboring country, 
they would not make a living. I recommended Harris- 
burg, — where lately the chief physician has died, and 
very often diseases prevail. 

The plants you were pleased to send, I have looked 
over. They are, a few excepted, also natives of our parts. 

I will be extremely obliged to you for any dubious or 
new specimens. You have in Sussex, the Hopea,> — also 
a Nyssa denticulata (Peperidge) which I long to have in 
my Herbarium. 

There are, now and then, wagons from here which go 
to Wilmington ; but I believe the safest and cheapest 
way, is by vessels passing between Wilmington and 
Philadelphia. 

I enclose in my letter 25 Cryptogam ia, comprising 
the different Genera of Mosses, according to the system 
of Hedwig, — now generally received. I took only na* 
tives, and chiefly the most common. If you wet them 
with a few drops of water, they will get alive and show 
their habit plainly. I do not doubt you have them all 
growing near Wilmington. Lichens may follow another 
time, if you choose to study this class. 

I hope you have recovered entirely from your late 
complaint, and will favor me with a continuance of your 
correspondence. I beg to be remembered to Mrs. Bald- 
win. Dr. Perlee informs me she is a great Botanist 
and Entomologist ; which gave me sincere pleasure. 
I remain with true esteem, dear sir, 

H. IVL 



24 

DK. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. March 30, 1811. 
Dear Sir: I have just understood that my letter and 
package of the 15th inst. still remain at Mr. Musser's, 
awaiting a safe conveyance; and that Mrs. Muhlen- 
berg is in the city, but about to return to Lancaster. — 
Having another package in readiness, I send it up im- 
mediately, that both may go on safely together. 

I feel almost ashamed, my dear sir, to trouble you 
with so many specimens, — with which I dare say you 
think I ought to be better acquainted: but my exj 
ence in the investigation of plants, of course, has not 
been great. Relying, therefore, upon a continuance of 
that liberality which you have already so gratify ingly 
manifested towards me, I sincerely hope by my indus- 
try to make you ample amends, hereafter. 

I wish you would hasten the publication of your Bo- 
tanical work, alluded to in v<»ur letter of the 18th Jan- 
uary. 1 have sent to New York tor Michaux'i Flora, 
and have some hopes of obtaining it. In anticipation 
of your Lichens, I have been making collections of this 
family of plants, — which are, in all probability, as nu- 
merous here, as about Lancaster. 

Is the Zizania clavulosa of Michaux, which you sent 
me, the same with the aquatica of Linn, which covers 
our marshes here — or is it another species! — The Spar- 
ganium ramosum, I think Dr. Barton calls < rectum ; but I 
knownotfromwhatauthority.lt grows abundantly with us. 
Is the enclosed specimen of Scutellaria the lateriflora 
of LinnI And is it the same with that contained in the 
package accompanying this letter] In a late number 
of the New York Medical Repository, this plant is re- 
commended as a preventive of the Hydrophobia, (with 
a drawing,) under the name of Scutellaria galericulata, 
L. which I think is incorrect. 

Mrs. Baldwin joins me in wishing that you may long 
live to cultivate the Science of Botany. W. B. 



25 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster , April 8, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Your two letters, and packets, No. II. and 
III. were handed to me three days ago ; and had, for 
want of an opportunity, a long passage. I hasten to 
acknowledge the receipt, and to return my best thanks 
for the valuable presents, — although I am not able just 
now to return some of the specimens which you have 
marked as uniques; as I am engaged during this week 
before Easter with official business so much, that not an 
hour remains to make up a parcel of Lichens, and other 
plants, for you. The first leisure and opportunity I 
have, it shall be done with pleasure. In answer to your 
letters, I only mention that the Sparganium erectum, L. 
is by late 'Botanists — especially Willdenow — now di- 
vided into two species; a, ramosum, and b, simplex. We 
have both growing very often in company. 

The Scutellaria, enclosed in the letter, is the same 
with that contained in the package ; and is certainly the 
lateriflora, L. which has sometimes flores oppositi, axil- 
lares. Some of your Carices cannot with safety be de- 
termined, because the specimens are too young. They 
ought to be gathered when the fruit is half ripe. We 
have great plenty ; and near 50 of ours are well figured 
by Mr. Schkuhr, in his work de Caricibus. I wish very 
much to see whatever you can find of the genus. 

When you make up another packet, pray continue 
the numbers. This will make our correspondence more 
easy; and we can refer to the numbers whenever 
doubts arise — or amendments, or supplements are 
necessary. 

I have looked over your specimens but once ; and 
will give you my opinion, as far as I can give it. * * * 

[A few, only, of the remarks on the specimens are 

3 



26 

here retained : such as are believed to be still interest- 
ing to American Botanists.] 

Packet II. No. 1. is certainly a Melampyrum; but dis- 
tinct from M. America num, of Michaux, which seems to 
be your I, No. 8. The latter has yellow seeds, 4, your 
II, No. 1, black seeds, 2-4, with broader leav< 
near to M. pratense, L. Pray send more, with flowers. 
No. 4, "Schoenus ?" Scirpus planifolius, mihi ; not yet des- 
cribed. No. 16, "Cerastium, from the Barrens, Chester 
County." A new specie*, which I have named Janatvm:* 
I wish to see more, with the capsule Packei IIL V . 
13. "Bartnjiia, of Marshall?" is 8treptopu*i Mx. I'vu- 

la via, Pers. 

Should, after closer examination, any alteration oc- 
cur to me, 1 will inform you. I mark BUCh as I have 
not already bo my Herbarium, (and which I wish to 
by your kindness,) with a N. B. and whenever opportu- 
nity happens, 1 will return to you what you desired, — 
wjth some other plants. 

In the moan time, I remain with unchangeable es- 
teem, and my best respects to Mrs. Baldwin, 
Sir, vour sincere friend, 

II. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. April 22, 1811. 
Dear Sir: I received your valuable communication 

*[This Cerastium — which, in Chester County, is chiefly confined 
to the Serpentine rocks — is the C. villosum of Mthl. Catal. and 
Flora Cestrica: C. oblongifolium of Tohrey & Gray's N. Avici- 
ican Flora.] 



27 

of the 8th a few days ago ; and herewith transmit to you 
another packet (No. IV.) which I fear will turn out as 
little interesting as the former. 

Some of the information that you have requested will 
be found accompanying the package. 

Veronica hederifolia is doubtless a native. It is abund- 
ant in some of the hedges in our vicinity ; and has been 
flowering (if I do not greatly mistake) since some time 

in March. Has it not been recognized as a native 1 

****** 

Letters and packages between Wilmington and Phila- 
delphia are conveyed with the utmost facility, either 
by land or water, free of expense. The greatest diffi- 
culty appears to be between the city and Lancaster. 

I am sincerely your obliged friend, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO PR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, April 23, 1811. 

Dear Sir: According to my promise, in my last letter, 
I have prepared 25 Lichens in small specimens for you. 
They are from Europe ; and therefore not all indigenous 
in our country. In winter, I collect, near the fire-side, 
our Lichens on the fire-wood; and I dare say you 
would find the most of them in the same manner. Many 
of ours are not yet described; but we may expect to 
find the greater portion either in the new edition of 
Linnaei Species of Willdenow; or in the Licheno- 
graphia of Acharius; to both I have sent whatever I 
could collect in our parts; i. e. about 130 species. 

My observations on your packets, II and III, you will 
have received long before this by the mail: April 8, 



28 

the letter was written. I find, after a second examina- 
tion, no reason to alter any name ; but repeat my 
wishes to have another and better specimen of some 
numbers. * * * * 

If your time and circumstances would permit, I would 
be extremely much obliged to you for a catalogue of 
such plants as you have seen in your excursions, — or as 
you have in your Herbarium. I would then know bet- 
ter which plants are to be exchanged. Any plant you 
have not, and I have, should be sent ; and I would men- 
tion to you which of yours are not with us. The Jei 
opposite to you, and Sussex, contain many southern 
plants. I intend to make an excursion into the Jen 
when I come next to Philadelphia — i. e. the first and 
second week after Whitsuntide, when our Synod meets 
at Philadelphia: Probably some hours in the day may 
be left for an excursion. 

A gentleman from Savannah, Mr. Oemlek, wished to 
call on you, on his return from Philadelphia to Savan- 
nah by land. He is a valuable correspondent. Has he 
ever called 1 

Remember my best respects to Mrs. Baldwin, and 
believe me to be with unchangeable esteem and friend- 
ship, 

Sir, your most obedient, kc. 

H. M. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, April 30, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Your packet and letter, dated April 22, 
came to Lancaster April 26, and gave me much plea- 
sure. The garden plants, being chiefly uniques, I did 



29 

not examine closely. Indeed, I leave them to Botanists 
who see them living, and have plenty of specimens.—* 
Our native plants are my favorites; — although I sow, 
every year, a number of foreign plants, for comparison. 

I will wait for an opportunity, and send your uniques 
back to Philadelphia. I have put your specimen of 
Scirpus retrofractus, and a specimen of Commelyna 
longifolia, in the packet. 

If you can get leisure, I will thank you very much for 
a catalogue of your plants, — that I may send you such 

from our neighborhood, as may be new in your parts. — 

******* 

Allow me one general remark: Your specimens are 
rather small and imperfect. I may, therefore, here and 
there, be mistaken: Should I find any mistake, I will 
inform you. 

The 23rd of this month, I sent your former packet 
back, and added 25 Lichens. They are from Europe ; 
but almost all, also, natives of North America. I expect 
the Jerseys contain a great many new species. If you 
look at your fire-wood, you will find the most of them* 
This year, I purpose to look for Confervae, — which have 
been overlooked entirely, in our Floras. Your water 
plants I wish very much to see. For all your favors, I 
return you my best thanks ; and remain, with unchange- 
able esteem, 

Sir, your most obed't, &c, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. May 3, 1811. 

Agreeably to your request, I send you as perfect a 
catalogue of our Plants as I am at present capable of. 



30 

[This catalogue enumerates about 550 species ; and 
mentions a number, then undetermined by Dr. B.] 

Such is my poor catalogue ; which, imperfect as it is, 
is at your service. I shall add to it as fast as possible. 
It is indeed my wish, and will afford me great pleasure, 
to serve you to the best of my abilities, in any way that 
you will please to direct, for the advancement of Botan- 
ical Science, 

I am, &c, 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, 1), /. Mayl, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Yourcbliging letter of the 80th April, came 
to hand the 2nd hist, following; but 1 did not receive the 

packet, and letter accompanying it, until yesterday: — 
having requosted Capt. Bush, who commands a pa 
boat from this place to Philadelphia, to call upon Mr. 
Musser for it. It may not, perhaps, be known to Mr. 
Musser, that the opportunities from Philadelphia to Wil- 
mington are daily, if sought for. I ask pardon for trou- 
bling you with so many imperfect specimens. It was 
owing to my former want of attention in not collecting 
them with care; and also to the confused state of my 
Herbarium : Hence, I have sent you specimens, both 
of garden plants, and others, which I found, after jrou 
had named them, I had once been familiar with. I beg 
pardon, also, for sending you so many foreign garden 
plants, which I ought to have investigated myself, — but 
which, as I had the specimens without knowing what 
they were, and indeed without knowing from whence 
many of them were obtained — I sent to you. I am 



31 

aware that your time is important and precious. I am 
sorry that you have been at the trouble of returning so 
many specimens — many more, indeed, than I expected, 
or had marked. * * * My present package 
was chiefly put up before I received either of your com- 
munications. It, however, contains but few uniques; 
and hereafter, as my Herbarium is now better arranged, 
and I shall take care to procure double and better spe- 
cimens, such inconveniences will not be experienced. 
Package IV. 140, from a re-examination, I have found 
to be Daphne Mezereum. 141, and 142, 1 have never seen 
in gardens. They grew spontaneously in the islands in 
the south of China, from whence I plucked them, with 
my own hands, in 1805. Specimens of them, with a 
great many others, (as well as native plants) principally 
uniques, are safe in the hands of Dr. Barton. I saw 
many plants, even in this part of China, which are com- 
mon here : — as different species of Scutellaria, the Lau- 
rus Sassafras, &c. &c. 

G-ood specimens of all the plants you have mentioned 
shall be forwarded in season. The Melampyrum will 
soon be in flower. The Ranunculus debilis, Raf. is be- 
ginning to flower. My catalogue has been drawn up 
hastily, and is very imperfect. I have no doubt but 
there are many plants with which I am acquainted, that 
are omitted from not being in my list, nor Herbarium ; 
but such as I discover I will inform you of. I have 
omitted most of our Forest trees* — not having attended 
much to them and the Grasses, &c. 

Mr. Oemler called on me yesterday, and started for 
Baltimore this morning. I was highly pleased with him, 
and made arrangements for corresponding. He will be 
of infinite service to Mrs. Baldwin, — in her prosecution 
of the science of Entomology ; and has agreed to ex- 
change Insects with her. I am extremely obliged to 
you for the Lichens ; a few of which are familiar to me, 



32 

although I was unacquainted with their specific charac- 
ters, and had attended but little to them. With senti- 
ments of the highest esteem, and regard for your wel- 
fare and prosperity, I remain affectionately yours, 

W. B. 
N. B. Can you not, when you come to Philadelphia, 
extend your excursion to Wilmington] No trifling 
circumstance would prevent me from bearing you com- 
pany, either into the Jerseys, or on this side the Bay. I 
should highly prize your company, were it only for a 
few hours. Mrs. B. sends her best respects to you, and 
would rejoice in seeing you. Excuse me, it I i 
more request you to hasten the publication pf your Bo- 
tanical work: I would almost insure you immediate and 
ample remuneration. A love for Botanical Scienc 
fast progressing in our happy country. Imperfe* 
my knowledge of Botany is, I am engaged in giving 

lectures, — principally to fOUng ladies, who an- 

mored with the study. I think I could readily obtain 
you a dozen of subscribers here. 

Forgive this long letter, and the freedom I take. I 
write, too, in great haste. 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN'. 

Lancastrr, May 22, 1811. 
Dear Sir: Your packet, containing specimens from 
No. 195-285, with the letter dated May 7, arrived >at 
the 18th inst., and gave me great pleasure. Receive my 
thanks for the catalogue of the plants in your neighbor- 
hood. Our Floras are much alike: however, there will 
remain some difference, — as you have the Delaware and 



33 

the Jerseys near, and I the Susquehanna which brings 
many plants from the westward. Looking over your 
catalogue, I find the following as strangers to our parts, 
at least to my Herbarium : viz. "Arabis tenella," — "Alis- 
ma, different from Plantago," — "Andromeda palustris" — 
"Asclepias undulata," — "purpurascens" — "a species very 
large, " — "another," — "Anthemis, one different from Co- 
tula," — "Euphorbia canescens," — "Galium asprellum," — 
"Gentiana, a beautiful species," — "Hibiscus Virginicus, 
2 vars." "Myrica Gale,''' — "Magnolia, different from 
glauca," — "Nyssa denticulata" Probably we may differ 
sometimes in names ; and by exchanging the plants we 
will be certain. Will you be pleased to send me those 
mentioned, whenever you can spare any specimen 1 — 
All the others mentioned in your catalogue, I have in 
my Herbarium. I have no doubt you will discover ma- 
ny other plants this summer, — especially if you turn 
your attention to Grasses, and the Cryptogamia. Your 
situation for Confervae is excellent. My method to pre- 
serve these, is this. As soon as I bring them home, I 
put them in water, and stir them about until they are 
clean and well spread ; then I run a clean stiff paper 
under them in the water, raise them out, and lay the pa- 
per slanting to let the water run off until the paper is 
dry ; then I write the time of finding on the paper. My 
collection is but small. Mr. Oemler has promised me 
to collect whatever he can find at Savannah, and the 
sea shore. He will prove an excellent correspondent 
to us. I have examined your specimens, and have re- 
packed your uniques, and shall send them by the first 
opportunity to Philadelphia. Here and there I have 
added some plants which I did not find in your cata- 
logue, — or when your specimen was not clear enough 
for me. I will try to give you my opinion on them, 
with the old reserve — errors excepted; and shall be 
glad to hear your doubts, or emendations. Whenever I 



34 

wish to sec a better specimen, or another, I add N. B. 

I will hardly be able to extend my excursion to Wil- 
mington, in June, — being pressed by business; although 
I wish exceedingly to see you personally. An excur- 
sion of a few hours, in a good situation, would explain 

more than a dozen letters. 

Pray have you specimens of any of Lewis's plants'! 
I have tried every method to get a Bight of them, — but 
in vain. My friends at Philadelphia have denied me the 
pleasure of seeing them in Sower. I would wish t<» add 
them to my catalogue, without any description; — I 
ing that to the compilers of Lewis's work. I am afraid 
the description will be made in England, and Lev 
work will come too late. Perhaps you can get the 
cimens from Mr. M'Mahon, or Dr. Barton. — This let- 
ter I will forward by the mail ; and the packet \\ hem 
an opportunity offers to Philadelphi 

Remember my best respects t<» ."Mrs. Baldwin, and 
believe me t<» he, 

Sir, pour most obedient humble servant, 

II. H. 

P. S. I shall he at Philadelphia from the 9th to the 
13th of June. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MTHLLNBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. May 27, 1811. 

Dear Sir : Your valuable letter of the 22nd, and the 
packet containing Commelyna Yirginica, and my 
uniques, have been received ; for which you are entitled 
to my warmest thanks. I am preparing you another 
packet; but whether it will reach you before you leave 



35 

Lancaster for Philadelphia, is uncertain, — as I have nu- 
merous engagements to attend to. 

It is my intention, while you are in the city, to send 
you (possibly I may be the bearer myself,) the Ranun- 
culus debilis, Raf. Melampyrum, &c, in a tin case, in a liv- 
ing state, for your investigation. — I have no specimens 
of Lewis's plants ; but will most cheerfully use my en- 
deavors to obtain them. 

I have just received a letter from Major Thomas M. 
Form an of Rose Hill, Sassafras neck, Maryland, en- 
closing a specimen of Solanum dulcamara. The Major 
has not informed me whether he obtained it from Sassa- 
fras, Maryland, or in Delaware State, near New Castle, 
where he spends a great part of the summer: but it is 
native. 

Having the advantage of your correspondence, I de- 
vote every leisure hour to Botany ; and shall extend my 
collections as much as possible, for your sake — who 
have done so much for the Science, — as well as for my 
own, who am anxious to tread in your footsteps. 

I am your obliged friend, &c. 

W. B. 
P. S. Mrs. B. who returns you her compliments, is 
engaged in catching Butterflies. I shall be highly grati- 
fied with the specimens you are about to transmit. 



The following list [says Dr. Baldwin, in his MS. 
notes,] was delivered by myself to Dr. Muhlenberg, in 
Philadelphia, on the 11th June. I add it, with his re- 
marks for the sake of convenient reference. I enjoyed 
in the company of this venerable, enlightened and 
benevolent man, the sweetest intellectual pleasure. — 
Had a short but interesting excursion with him on the 
morning of the 12th, toward G-ermantown. 



36 

[The following remark, concerning Carex squarrosa, 
L. is extracted from the list referred to — as an interest- 
ing little incident in the history of that species. It is 
now frequently met with; and, in some localities, is 
even abundant.] 

303. Carex squarrosa. Frequent applications have 
been made to Dr. M. from Europe for this species of 
Carex, and he has in vain sought for it from different 
parts of the United States, until it was concluded that 
no such plant existed. • • • • 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del Jum 25, 1811. 
Dear Sir: Since I had the pleasure of seeing you in 
the city, the necessary cares of life hare prevented me 

from making you an earlier return for the attention with 
which you honored mc^ and I apprehend the present 
package will not be very interesting. I send you the 
best specimens I possess of the Carex squarrosa ; but it 
is to be met with in abundance, at a little distance. I 
have only time to return you my best wishes, — as the 
bearer of this letter is waiting to convey it, along with 
the package, to Philadelphia. W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, July 2, 1811. 
Dear Sir : Your packet arrived safe, yesterday. Re- 
ceive my best thanks for it. Such observations as occur 



37 

at the first perusal, I will add. Should any others be 
made when I put the new or dubious ones to their 
classes in my Herbarium, a future letter may contain 
such observations. * * * 

"289. Physalis" — viscosa, Mx! Pennsylvanica, Willd. 
hardly of Linn. Has the plant a disagreeable smell, 
the fruit a good one? I wish to see more. We have 
only two native species here. * * 

"300. Thalictrum cornuti?" Specimen imperfect. — 
We have three — dioicum, polygamum, and one without 
name, with a disagreeable smell—- -jloribus dioicis, cer- 
nuis, — flowering in June, after dioicum, and before 
polygamum. * * * * 

"318. Impatiens"—fulva, mihi. We have another, 
sulphurea, mihi [pallida, Nutt. Torr. & Gray.] — and 2 
vars. alba and purpurascens, — all different, I suppose, 
from noli tangere, L. 

"319. Euphorbia" — maculata, Schreber & Smith — parvi- 
flora, Sprengel. What Schreber calls hypericifolia, 
Sprengel calls maculata. No. 319 is not in the Herb- 
arium of Linne. 

?h ^ y£ ^c w y^ yfc 

"328. Aster corymbosus ?" with some doubt. Their co- 
species, run into one another so much, that there is no 
certainty — macrophyllus, corymbosus, and cordifolius. I 
have them now in my garden. [See Torrey &; Gray — 
who retain the three, as distinct species.] * * * 
I mark such as I wish to see again, and are new to 
me. With unchangeable esteem and sincere friendship, 
I remain, Sir, your very affectionate 

H. M. 
4 



38 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del July 7, 1811. 
Dear Sir : Yours of the 2nd, came safe to hand on 
the 4th, for which you are entitled to my sincere thanks. 
I have this day put you up a package, in great h, 
which will be delivered to you by Joseph Mkmh.nhall, 
a near relation to Mrs. Baldwin, who starts this after- 
noon for the western country. He will be accompanied 
by a boy, who will return again from Lancaster t<> Wil- 
mington — by whom you may write, should it be conve- 
nient. — Mrs. B. sends her compliments to you, and is 

very impatient to hear from Mr. of Baltim 

who has not yet forwarded the catalogue of In 
Most affectionately yours, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancastfr, July 8, 1611. 

Dear Sir: I am this moment returned from an aJ 
noon's excursion, and find unexpectedly a packet from 
you. I thank you sincerely for your instructs 
mens. Your last packet I have looked ov. r. since, 
more than once ; and find no alteration necessary. The 
iialia remain something uncertain: circaezans, Midi. 
has commonly a smooth — sometimes a hairy stem: 
puncticulosum is always hairy, and always has folia punc- 
tata. Your garden Cress I will examine another time. 
What we cultivate in gardens, is exactly Lepidium 
sativum, L. 

As I look over your specimens, I will add the names 
as far as I can do it at first sight — reserving the usual 
errors excepted. 



39 

"337. Asdepias decumbens? Is the decumbens, and 
tuberosa, the same plant V 337 is certainly Asdepias 
tuberosa, L. He took the description of decumbens from 
Gronovius, without having the plant in his Herbarium. 
******* 

Your young friend is waiting for my letter: I must 
therefore conclude. Remember my best respects to 
Mrs. Baldwin, and believe me to be with unchangeable 
esteem and affection, 

Sir, your very sincere friend and humble servant, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. July 16, 1811. 

Dear Sir : I received your letter of the 8th, on the 
10th, which, as usual, gave me much satisfaction ; and 
for which I return you my thanks. I have sent you, in 
this packet, several plants that I have not seen before,— 
as Arabis, Lemna, &c. But, for want of more leisure, I 
have also sent you a number that are very common : of 
which, however, I may not have all the names correct. — 
I have opened a book according to your plan, in which 
I can, with the utmost facility, enter my descriptions, 
and notes, of any plant I meet with, under its proper 
class ; and find it of great importance, as it will render 
me familiar with botanical language. 

I wrote lately to my friend, Dr. Shattuck, of Boston, 
and inquired for Professor Peck and his Botany ; but 
have not yet received an answer. 

Mrs. Baldwin sends her best respects to you, and 
begs that if you write to the Entomologist in Baltimore, 
(whose name I cannot recollect,) you will put him in 



40 

mind of his promise to send us his catalogue of insects. 
Have you heard from Mr. Oemler, since his return to 
Savannah 1 
I am, most sincerely and unchangeably. 

Your friend, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Ixincastcr, July 27, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Last evening I had the pleasure 
by the stage, your letter and packet, for which receive 
my best thanks. 

My friend in Baltimore, who promised you tl 
logue of Coleoptera, had, immediately after his return, 
a severe attack of an apoplectic stroke, — from which he 
is, by the blessing of God, now i d. It' jrouad- 

dfess a line to him, he no doubt will fulfill his promise. 
Address to the Rev. Danikt. Krv;, at Baltimore 

I have, after my last, looked over your numbers 337, 
378, and found hardly any thing to add. * * * 

Since my last, I have received an excellent new work 
upon Lichens, by Acharius, and some other Botanical 
works; butnotany continuation of Willdenow, alth 
it was sent off from different quarters. Remember my 
best respects to Mrs. Baldwin. 

I remain, with sincere regard, 

Sir, your most obedient, 

H. M. 



41 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del. August 2, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Yours of the 27th was duly received, for 
which you have my hearty thanks. I hope the present 
packet will be received in an undamaged state, and that 
some of the specimens will be interesting to you. I 
expect in a short time to receive a number of specimens 
from Kent county, where, I am certain, a number of 
plants are to be found that do not grow in our vicinity. 
Whatever I can procure shall be sent to you ; for I wish 
most anxiously to remunerate you, in some way or 
other, for your obliging favors. 

I received a letter, a few days ago, from Dr. S hat- 
tuck of Boston, who, in reply to my inquiries respecting 
Prof. Peck, informed me that he was not to be relied 
upon as a correspondent, and that he has had no ac- 
count, lately, of his promised publication of the American 
Genera, &c. I have written to the Rev, Daniel Kung, 
who I hope has perfectly recovered from the alarming 
disease which you inform me he was afflicted with, after 
his return from the city. 

Was the Asdepias (No. 402) the same which you saw 
in Philadelphia! I had (through mistake, I presume,) 
arranged it in my Herbarium under the name of A. lauri. 
folia, of Michaux. Mentha arvensis (403) and Canaden- 
sis, I suppose, are not one plant. As described in my 
Species Plantarum, it appears to come much nearer to 
arvensis than Canadensis. I received, a few days ago, 
a single specimen of a beautiful Orchis^ from Chester 
county : — spike very long — spur long— flowers purple — 
leaves oval, broad. It seemed to come nearest to ci7i- 
arts.* You are, perhaps, familiar with h\ 

*[Dr. B. had omitted to notice that O. ciliari* has not "purple," 
but bright orange. colored flowers. The species here alluded to, was 

4* 



42 

August 3. Since writing the above, last evening, I 
have received the promised catalogue, accompanied by 
an obliging letter, from the Rev. D. Kung ; and am 
happy to learn that he is able to attend to his olncial 
duties. 

With sentiments of warm esteem, 
I remain, <Scc, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, August 20, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Your packet, and letter dated Aug, '-2, arri- 
ved safe on this morning; and I hasten to acknowle 
both, lest you should think I have been late in answering. 

The plants were all in good order, and lm\ e me much 
pleasure. Should yen receive any from Kent, or from 
Boston, you will add nnieli to the obligations 1 OW< 
already, if you lei me share in them. 

From Massachusetts, or any rocky sea-shore, I ex] 
to see Fuei and Confervae, — which have never been in- 
vestigated and added to the American Flora. I have 
quite lately received some from the Jersey sea-shore. 
They were a fine and new Bight for me. It' Laid in « . 
they recover their figure very well. 

Your Asdepias {402) you had, 1 think, at Philadelphia. 
It is in the Herbarium of LlNNASUS, without a name ; 

doubtless, what has been generally known, in this country, by the 
name of O. fimbriata; but which Dr. A. Geai has recently 
tained to be the true and original O psyecdrs, of Linn. Bee Sil- 

liman's Journal, vol. 38, p. 310, for an exposition of the remarkable 
confusion in which several American species of Orchis, or Habcnaria, 
have been hitherto involved.] 



43 

and agrees nearest with laurifolia, of Michaux, — though 
a bad name. He must have seen it ; as it grows also to 
the southward, — where he seems to have examined very 
closely. With us, it is scarce. 

Mentha (403) we have, in different and strong varie- 
ties. Smith would have it to be his gracilis. Schreber 
named it sativa. The stamina are exserta and inclusa, — 
and I still think our verticillate Mentha is arvensis ; — and 
perhaps, also, borealis, Mx. and canadensis, L. 

I know a fine purple Orchis, which Willdenow has 
received from me, and named incisa. It is probably the 
same. His fissa and fimbriata, Ait. have likewise purple 
flowers. Compare the characters: 

1. fimbriata — "labello tripartito, laciniis cuneiformibus 
ciliato-fimbriatis, pctalis lateralibus ovatis dentatis, 
cornu filiformi clavato germine longiore. W." 

2. incisa — "labello tripartito, laciniis cuneiformibus 
inciso-dentatis, intermedia emarginata, petalis laterali- 
bus obtusis subdentatis, cornu subulato adscendente 
germinis longitudine. W." 

3. fissa — "labello tripartito, laciniis cuneiformibus 
dentatis, intermedia biloba, cornu filiformi apice clavato 
adscendente germine longiore. W." [See Gray in Sill. 
Journ. 1. c] The real Orchis ciliaris varies with yellow 
and white flowers ; and is your 464. * * * 

Since my last, I sent to Messrs. Olof Swartz and 
Acharius a great number of Mosses and Lichens which 
are still dubious to me, and hope they will arrive safe in 
Sweden, and return a clear answer. I have desired 
them to send to me whatever they can spare of Fucus 
and Conferva. They are both extremely well versed in 
Cryptogamia. 

From one of my old correspondents, the Rev. Mr. 
Denke, amongst the Indians in Fairfield, Canada, I have 
received a promise of all Canada plants not to be found 



44 

in our parts; and a full account of Indian medical 
plants, with which he is well acquainted. I anticipate 
much pleasure and use in this renewed correspondence. 
Mr. Oemler, at Savannah, has not yet answered my let- 
ter, written to him some time in May. 

My collection of sweet water Confervae is getting 
strong. I only take one sixteenth of a sheet to put them 
on, and they look extremely delicate. It would be a 
lady's occupation. Only throw the Conferva in water — 
spread it well — run the paper under, take up the Con- 
ferva, and pin it to a wooden wall until the paper is dry. 

Remember my best respects to Mrs. BALDWIN, ami 
believe me to be with great esteem and real affection, 
Sir, your most obedient and sincere friend, 

II. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

WUmington % Del. August 27, 1811. 

Dear Sir: I received with great pleasure your com- 
munication of the 20th, and hasten to make you a feeble 
return. Of your N. B's I send you this time a good 
cimen of No. 28, [packet III.] which I hope you will be 
able to investigate. I took a ride of 6 or 7 miles in or- 
der to procure it. * • • 

I have received no specimens from Kent, — but pre- 
sume there are some in store for me. From Boston, I 
fear it will be difficult to obtain them : But, whatever I 
obtain, from any quarter, shall be shared with you. I 
am happy to hear that your correspondence is extended 
far and wide, both in the old and new world ; and I have 
no doubt but a grateful posterity will amply reward you 



45 

for the result of those labors, which you seem inclined, 

at present, to withhold from the public. 

With esteem and gratitude, I remain dear sir, 

Your obedient and humble friend, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN, 

Lancaster, September 4, 1811. 

Dear Sir : Your packet and letter dated Aug. 27, came 
safe to Lancaster last evening. Receive my best thanks 
for both. They have added to my Herbarium several 
valuable plants. I hasten to give you my observations, — 
although I had no time to compare some of them with 
my Herbarium. I can always give you my curas paste- 
riores in a future letter. Your last packet was just added 
to my Herbarium when this came. I found little to add 
to my former observations, except 457 is something dif- 
ferent from our common Rudbeckia laciniata. 472 is 
Stachys hyssopifolia, Mx. — very different from my tenui- 
folia. 478 is not Festuca diandra — the calyx is too ob- 
tuse : but what it is, I could not discover by the imper- 
fect specimen. * * * Your 490 is not Hedysarum 
obtusifolium, Willd. but rotundifolium, Mx. canescens, 
Willd. not of Linne. [See Torr. & Gray, sub Desmod.] 
The Hedysara are very superficially described; and 
without the lomentum Qegumen, L.,) not to be distin- 
guished. 

Your present numbers are — as much as I can judge 
at first sight : — 

507. Trachynotia cynosuroides, Mx. formerly Dactylis* 
L. pistillum 1, is the distinction from Dactylis. 

513. Oryzopsis, Mx. I had named it Milium melano- 
carpon. 



46 

531. Poly gala verticillata. I could never distinguish, 
specifically, the one with a reddish flower, from the 
white. Is not your No. 23, (packet III.) Polymnia 
Uvedalia 1 

558. Hedysarum paniculatxim, Willd. not of Mx. which 
has linear leaves. I mark, as formerly, the plants which 
I wish to see in more perfect specimens, — when* 
you have leisure to collect them. 

Quite lately I had a visit from a Mr. Shull, who now 
lives at Marcus Hook, as Inspector of the Customs. He 
has an excellent botanical eye, and promises to send me 
a number of Marcus Hook plants, which, according to 
his description, scorn to be new; — especially a blue- 
flowering water plant, different from Pontederia — with a 
narrow leaf: also, a white sweet-scented llowcr — the 
plant smelling liko Anoao*. Should you hare any busi- 
j at Marcus Hook, l beg leave to recommend him 
and his Herbarium to your notice. He mentions, also, 
a Cane, in Dr. Tilton's garden. What is that! 1 
it ever flower! I wish to be certain whether we have 

two different species of Cane. I have three in my gar- 
den, — one, very large: this BoWeiS very late, and seems 
to be the Aru ndo Donax. I have also the Maiden Cane, 
probably the Arundinaria, Mx. — and Butler's Cane: 
Bnt the two last have never flowered, and remain small. 

I am sorry that my Massachusetts correspondents 
hardly ever answer a letter, and that nothing can be got 
from them. Indeed, there is but one Doctor Baldwin 
amongst my correspondents — who is indefatigable. — 
How shall I thank you enough, for your packets \ 

Mr. Oemler mentioned three gentlemen in Baltimore, 
who were great lovers of Botany — Mr. De la Foullay, 
Drs. Wilkes and Smith. Could we not get those gentle- 
men to let us have some of the Baltimore plants \ I 
have been there several times, but had no leisure to 



47 

make any excursions. In general, I thought Baltimore 
an excellent situation for a close observer. 

Some time before November, I expect to be at Phila- 
delphia, to introduce my youngest son to Dr. Rush, and 
the other Professors, as he intends to study medicine 
with Dr. Rush. I expect to make some valuable addi- 
tions to my Herbarium, from Mr. Lyon's and M'Ma- 
hon's gardens. In my neighborhood, little new can be 
found. 

I conclude this scrawl with my best respects to Mrs. 
Baldwin, and remain, with unchangeable esteem and 
friendship, 

Sir, your most obedient servant, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Wilmington, Del Sept. 23, 1811. 
Dear Sir : You will readily excuse the delay of this 
packet, as well as its want of importance, when I inform 
you that since I wrote last, I have lost a dear and only 
brother. He died of pulmonary consumption, from 
asthma, (to which he had been subject from an infant,) 
the 5th instant, — the day preceding the receipt of your 
last valuable communication. I have also been severely 
afflicted, myself, with a bowel complaint, bordering 
upon dysentery. 

• *«••*• 

J am not acquainted with Mr. Shull of Marcus Hook. 
His "blue-flowering water plant" I have heard of, — as I 
have no doubt it is the same that was sent to me some 
time ago ; but the bearer (a small boy) unfortunately 



48 

lost it by the way. It was found within a mile of this 
borough, at the junction of the Brandywine with the 
Christiana. I will wait upon Mr. Shull the first oppor- 
tunity. The cane, in Dr. Tilton's garden, is from Caro- 
lina, and has never Glowered. I will inquire further 
respecting it, the first opportunity. 

I am extremely glad to have added to your Herbarium ; 
and be assured, my dear sir, I feel myself abundantly 
compensated for my packets, by the friendly manner in 
which you so promptly condescended to give me the 
information I require. But I must now, also, Inform 
you with regret, that our correspondence is likely to be 
interrupted, at bast for a time. My health having be- 
come extremely delicate, and having hardlj 
from the pulmonary attack I had, last winter, I dl 
the consequence of remaining in a climate bo cold, the 
ensuing inclement season ; and am therefore preparing 
to spend the winter at the southward. My intention is 
to sail from Philadelphia for Charleston, about the first 
of November. Whether [shall remain in Chariot 
or go further south, I have not yet determined. But, my 
friend, wherever I go — should 1 be favored with health, 
I will attend to our favorite pursuits, and share with 
the result of all my discoveii 

You speak of being in Philadelphia, some time before 
November. If you will be so good as to inform me 
when, I will endeavor to meet you there, and bring on 
some specimens, if I have time to colled them, — and 
beg you to favor me with letters to some of your friends 
in the south. I remain yours fcc. 

W. B. 



49 

P. S. I am not acquainted with Mr. De la Foullay, 
nor Dr. Wilkes, of Baltimore : But Dr. Smith, of that 
city, called at my house a few days ago, when I was from 
home, and left word that he would call again, on his re- 
turn. He told Mrs. Baldwin that he had a "smart" col- 
lection of plants. I shall, therefore, make arrangements 
with him, — should he be so good as to call again. — The 
purple flowering Orchis, which I spoke of in a late let- 
ter, appears to be the Jimbriata — from the character 
which you have given of it, in your letter of August 20. 
I forgot, also, to inform you, that I have seen but one 
Zizania. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, October 11, 1811. 

Dear Sir: Receive my best thanks for the new 
packet which arrived here a few days since, and which 
I have looked through with a great deal of satisfaction. 
Some of the plants are dubious to me, — especially the 
ill-described Hedysara, species or varieties ; but I will 
do what I am now able to do. A future day will allow 
more ; and I may, in another letter, make supplements. 
I know (except Aster J no genus harder to get certain, 
than Hedysarum. Michaux has made two genera of it : — 
Lespedeza, with calyx 5— parted, and a capsule with one 
seed, — while Hedysarum has Calyx sublabiatus, foment um 
articulatum. Willdenow has kept the old name, and 
only made Lespedeza, or Tournefort's Onobrychis, for 
a subdivision. I wish very much to have all Hedysara 
alive ; and I beg you, therefore, to enclose in a future 
packet, such Hedysara seeds as we have not here, — 
if you can get them without too much trouble. * * 

Since my last, I have received a fine collection of 
New York plants, by my son who was there ; and some 

5 



50 

maritime plants from Dr. S. L. Mitchill, — and ha 
promise of more. 

The Lichens and Mosses I sent to the veteran 10 Botany, 
Olof Swartz, have arrived safe ; and he has returned a 
satisfactory answer, — Confirming my names. I will 
collect, this winter, supplements. Some time next 
week, or week after next, I intend to l»ein Philadelphia* 
Have you had an opportunity to see Mr. Shcll, at 
Marcus Hook! My best respects to Mrs. Baldwin. — 
Neither from Mr. Elliott, nor Mr. Oemlkk, ha* 
received any letter in a very long time. 

Adieu, my dear sir. I remain, with great esteem, 

Your very sincere friend and humble servant, 

EL M. 



DR. BALDWIN To DR. MUHLE 

Philadelphiai \ 1 , 1-11. 

My Dear Sir: I have just arriv< d to Becure my } 
age to Charleston, S. C, but shall not sail for a week or 
more. With this you will receive a small packet, put 
up amid the hurry erf preparing for my journey ; bu 
which I may receive, most probably, an answer before 
I sail. A number of the specimens are from the neigh- 
borhood of Washington (Maryland) — and were brought 
to me by a friend of mine, whom I requested to collect 
for me. 

I was mistaken in the account I gave you of Dr. Til- 
ton's Arundo. It has flowered for several year-; and 
I have procured a specimen of it for you, — hut forgot to 
bring it with mc, this morning. I lately called on Mr. 
Shull, at Marcus Hook, and procured a lew specimens 
from him,— most or all of which, I think, you have - 
One, however — a Syngenesious plant, and odorous — is 
entirely new to mc. I have but a single specimen of it. 
And now, my dear sir, I have only to request, that if I 



51 

can be of any service to you, while in the southern 
States, you will inform me in what way. I go first to 
Charleston: from thence to Savannah, and probably 
further south. Should you wish to write to any of your 
southern friends, I would be happy to be the bearer, and 
to render you all the service in my power. 

I am, dear sir, yours, 

W. B. 

N. B. If you should write by me, you might direct to 
the care of Mr. Mussee, — where I can readily obtain 
whatever you send. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, November 4, 1811. 

Dear Sir : This evening I had the pleasure to receive 
your letter of November 1, and the packet. I hasten to 
return you an answer, for fear of coming too late. In 
one respect, I shall be very sorry for your departure, — 
because I shall lose, at least for some time, your instruc- 
tive and pleasing correspondence; — indeed, the only 
one that was regular and uninterrupted since its begin- 
ning. But your love of Science, and excellent eye for 
Botany, and natural history in general, promise so much 
for a future day, that you go with my best wishes for a 
safe voyage, and a happy return. May I expect that, 
even at a distance, you will remember a friend who is 
obliged to stay in these parts ! 

I shall be extremely obliged to you for any letter from 
the southern parts, — and for every information you 
give me. 

Here are some of my wishes. 

When at sea, you will have an opportunity to see ma- 
ny marine plants, and species of Fucus and Conferva : 
pray gather whatever you can get. 



■ 

At Charleston, you will have an opportunity to see the 
Botanical Garden, and a number of plants — especially 
those left by Michaux. Any observations lit to eluci- 
date Michaux's Flora, will be instructive to the Botanical 

public. The same elucidation we want tor a number of 

plants mentioned in Baeteam's T Babtbah bat 

none of them bit in his Garden ; and if you w ould take 

his travels along, you could inform us which plants be 

meant. 

Should you come to Beaufort, in South * there 

is that excellent Botanist and Entomologist 
Elliott, Esq. He is, like yourself, indefatigable; has 
seen and examined b great many Plants, Mm 
and Insects ; is communicative, and just the gentleman 
we look for. I intended, iu my very oext letter, to 

mention your name to him, as a most valuable 

pondent should you see him personally, I am <->>u- 
vinced you would be entirely pleased N\ith one another. 
[ expect every day ■ promised packet from him; and 
then l will inform him of your voyage to the south- 
ward. Perhaps he is now at the seat of the Legislature, 

Columbia, S. C. 

At Savannah, you will find our mutual friend, Mr. 
Oemler. I have written two letters to him, without re- 
ceiving an answer. Mr. Bluott informed me, in his 
last letter, that he had not yet returned to Savannah. 
This is probably the reason of his not answerin 
him how anxiously I wait lor a favorable answer; and 
persuade him, it' possible, to let me have ■ sight of hi* 
European Gonferwae. 1 wish you to examine them, 
yourself, very closely. 

At Savannah you will have an opportunity to sec that 
excellent man, Mr. Abbott, — whose drawings of Geor- 
gia Insects and Plants, arc so justly admired. I wish to 
have your opinion on the new drawings he has made 
for the library, at Savannah. 



53 

Should you, in your travels, come to the Natchez, there 
is a Mr. Henry Moore, a native of Lancaster, who, in 
company with his brother, is in trade, — but likewise at- 
tends to Botany, and every branch of natural history: — 
a most valuable man, who, in his travels, has made ma- 
ny valuable discoveries. 

Without doubt you will find many other valuable gen- 
tlemen, who are unknown to me. Remember me to all 
such ; and try to open communion and correspondence 
with such. By joining hands, we may do something 
clever for the Science. Mine, indeed, begin to get old 
and stiff, — but the heart still beats high, and wishes that 
others may do what was left undone. Away with all 
jealousy. ***** 

Wishing you every success in your travels, and a 
happy return, I remain, with affection and unchangeable 
esteem, your sincere friend and humble servant, 

H. M. 

P. S. Pray keep a Journal of all the plants you see 
in flower — known, or unknown. It is of great ser- 
vice, as a Calendarium, to find the difference of the 
climate ; and a help to remember the whole of your 
journey. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Charleston, S. C December 6, 1811. 
My Dear Sir : I am happy to have it once more in 
my power to make you some small return for your ex- 
cellent favor of tire 4th of November last, — which came 
to hand in due time. The recommendations and in- 
structions contained in this letter, I value as of the 
highest importance to me, — and only regret my un- 
worthiness to receive: But the liberal and dignified 
sentiments you have expressed, towards the close of it, 

with which, unfortunately, too few are actuated — excited 

5* 



54 

my sensibility almost to tears; and the spontaneous 
wish of my heart is, that you may yet have many years 
to live, an honor and a blessing to your country. 

I am happy to inform you, that I have already found 
my health improved, and am able to take much active 
exercise. 

The forests are here clothed in green, — and consist 
principally of "Live Oak" fQvercu* vircns,J and Pine 
( Pinus palustris, L.) with a few "Hickories" fJuglan$J 
and "Black Oaks" fQuercus nigra % and Q. tinctoriaj: 
the leaves of the Hickories, alone, (different spec 
having assumed a yellow, autumnal hue. It has only 
been within a few days that the "Pride of China" fMelia 
AzedarachJ has in genera] shed its leaves. Many of the 

young trees of this genu$ n however, are still green ; and 

none of the garden plants, — nor indeed any other-, with 

the exception of the Hickories before mentioned — the 
ZantkoxyloQi and a species of Rhus (1 believe Rhus 
vernix,J — appear to have been injured by the tv 

There have been but two scanty white frosts, this 

son. Many plants are still flowering: — a complete list 

of which I hope to make out, — and most of them will 
be contained in the packet accompanying this letl 
along with a few dried specimens from the Herbarium 
of Mr. Noisette, a French gentleman who formerly had 
the care of the Botanic Garden. This garden, from 
which I had promised myself much, is almost in ruins : 
and the garden of Hichaui is a perfect desolation, — 
from which I can only obtain some few dried specimens 
that were procured from it, and arc preserved hy Mr. 
Noisette. They talk, however, of reviving the Botanic 
Garden, — and have actually purchased six acres for that 
purpose, about two miles from the city ; and have sold 
the old garden, which is a barren spot, for such an ad- 
vanced price as to gain one thousand dollars. 

•Many of the Shrubs, however, arc Evergreens. 



55 

I have agreeably to your request, remembered you to 
Mr. Noisette, — Mr. Shecutt, author of the Carolina 
Flora,* and a few others, — who appear to have at least 
some zeal for Botany; and from whom I hope we 
shall hereafter derive advantage. 

The garden is, at present, under the care of a com- 
mittee of the Medical Society, — not one of whom, un- 
fortunately, is a practical Botanist. Dr. Magwood, a 
very worthy gentleman, has the particular superintend- 
ence of the garden — appears to be much interested in 
it — and has agreed to correspond with me. 

I do not expect, my dear sir, to receive answers to my 
communications, prior to my return home. I shall then 
be very happy indeed to hear from you, and to have 
your observations in connection, on the specimens 
transmitted. 

In a few days I shall set out for Savannah ; and from 
thence it is my intention to go on to the Creek Nation, — 
having a letter from Dr. Ramsay to the Hon. B. Haw- 
kins, Superintendent of Indian affairs. I have received 
the kindest attention from Doctors Ramsay, Gough, 
Wilson, and others in Charleston, — to whom I had let- 
ters from Doctors Rush, Mease, &c. 

With sentiments of unalterable esteem, 

I remain, my dear friend, yours sincerely, 

W. B. 

N. B. You may expect to hear from me, whenever I 
can have it in my power to serve you. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Savannah, December 23, 1811. 
My Dear Sir : I hope that before this time you have 

*A work which, owing to pecuniary embarrassments, he was 
obliged to leave unfinished. 



56 

received my letter and packet from Charleston. I 
should have put you up another, here, had it not been 
for the difficulty and uncertainty of conveyance, at this 
season of the year. I have tost do time in making 
lections, — all of whirl], that arc interesting, jrou shall 
hereafter see, If 1 should be so fortunate as to return 
home. A number of plants are even still in flower, in 
sheltered situations, — although we have had some 
vere frost Among these are some sp 
(r'entidna, Lamium ttmfHexieau apriinulaefoH*,and 

Ho u sto n ia m rp yU ifol in . 

My health has much improved; and I have spent a 
week in this city very agreeably, in tic society of a 
number of gentlemen to whom I have been introduced, 
but more particularly with <>ur mutual friend, Mr. I I 
lbe, who deservedly takes the lead, here, as a N 
ralist* 

I have looked over, with great pleasure, the inter 
ing draw bags of the amiable Mr. Abb< u the 

library an- lunch mere accurate than some Others of 

older date, — as they have been recently executed under 

the inspection of the mere scientific Okmler. They 
arc, as far as I am qualified for judging, exquisitely 
beautiful and scientifically accurate. * * * 

I have not seen .Air. Elliott, which I regret i 
ingly; but must avail myself of that pleasure <>n my 
return this way, it' such should be my destination. 

Having been furnished with letters from Dr. Ramsay, 
Gen.C. C.PlNCKNEY, and Others, to Col. Hawkins, Super- 
intendent of Indian Affairs, in the lower Cre- -n, I 
am anxious to proceed on thither, — where I am told 1 
spend the remainder of the winter in peace and security, 
without incurring a heavy expense. I feel anxious, 

*[In a note, at a subsequent period, Dr. Baldwin- expresses his 
regret at being under the necessity of changing his opinion of tins 
gentleman.] 



57 

also, to see the natives of our country ; — to become ac- 
quainted with their plants, and obtain such other infor- 
mation as may be interesting. The Colonel, I am told, 
is a man of science ; and I hope to interest him in our 
favor. 

Nothing but want of ability, my dear sir, will prevent 
me from fulfilling your wishes in every respect, and 
contributing my feeble mite for the advancement of 
Botanical Science, while wandering about in search of 
health, far from my dear little family. I keep a journal, 
as you recommended; but it will contain little of im- 
portance. With sentiments of warm esteem, I remain 

Your obliged friend, 

W. B. 

P. S. I have a printed catalogue of the plants in the 

Botanic Garden, at Charleston. I will copy it for you, 

should you desire it, at some future period. The whole 

number of plants is only 494. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Savannah, January 28, 1812. 
Dear Sir: You will not expect a letter, at this time, 
from Savannah, — as I informed you in my last of my 
intention to go on to the Creek Nation: But I have, 
perhaps, been better employed, — having since paid a 
visit to the Le Contes, in Liberty county, — and spent 
some time with Mr. Elliott, at his plantation on the 
great Ogechee. I have no time, at present, to descant 
upon the knowledge and virtues of these worthy men ; 
as I am in great haste to put you up a small packet to 
send by Mr. Kin, who sets out immediately for Charles- 
ton, and has promised to deliver this safely to the care 
of Mr. Musser, on his arrival in Philadelphia. The 
Mosses I send you, are only part of my collection, — not 



58 

having time to put up more. Most of these were col- 
lected near the sea coast, on Wilmington Island, — from 
which place I have just returned. As I hope you have 
received my packet from Charleston, by the ship Penn- 
sylvania, I beg that you will connect the numbei 
that with this. — a- I cannot, at present, Lay my hands on 
the corresponding numbers, and have forgotten win 
left off. I remain with sentiments of warm esteem, 

YV. B. 
I shall probably set out for St. Mary's, in a few <i 



DR. Baldwin TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Creek Agency, on Flint River, April 20, 
lot. 82° 99 V. Long. 84 2ff W. G 
MyDbjjlSir: As I have found it impracticable to 

transmit to you any tpectmeat, f Will endeavor to make 

amends for this deficiency, by giving you n catalogue of 
those plants which have fallen under my observation, 
since my arrival in this country, as they have appe 
in flower; and I shall embrace the earliesl opportunity 
of forwarding the specimens, corresponding with the 
numbers herewith sent. 

I sent you a small packet of Mos set from Savannah, 

on the 28th January, by your friend Mv. Kin, — which I 

hope you have received, along with the letter thai 
companied it. [nstead of going on Immediately to St. 

Mary's, as intimated in that letter, I [nit my original plan 
in execution, and sal out for the "western wilds/ 1 on the 
first of February; whither 1 arrived on the 21st of that 
month, and commenced the following Calendarinm 

Florae. 

Feb. 21. Fragaria Virginiana in full bloom, in the 
garden of Col. Hawkins. * * * * 

Feb. 24. A Pentandrous shrub, growing in clusters in 



59 

high land (Pine barrens, &c.) about two feet high. 
Flowers appearing in numerous racemes at the ex- 
tremity of the branches, of a yellow color: no appear- 
ance of leaves. Note. — This shrub is a Rhus. * * 
Feb. 27. Sal ix— "Dwarf Willow" in flower: catkins 
very short. This is the Micco Hoyenejau, — "King Phy- 
sick," or "Great Medicine," of the Muscogee Indians 
(Creeks;) and has been in use among them from the 
earliest times, as a tonic medicine. They use the root, 
bruised, in a watery infusion. When used freely, it be- 
comes emetic. ****** 

Feb. 29. Viola pedata in flower, at Fort Hawkins, on 
the 16th. The Pine barrens, in many places, are cov- 
ered with the Viola pedata, varying in color, from the 
brightest blue to the clearest white, and frequently 
variegated with the most brilliant purple. Flowers very 
large. ******* 

March 3. Cercis Canadensis, or "Red-bud," beginning 
to flower. Indian Corn may now be planted. 

March 8. Trillium sessile beginning to flower: and in 
great abundance. ***** 

March 11. Bignonia sempervirens, L. [Gelsemium niti- 
dum, Mx.] flowering. This plant may be seen [in 
flower'?] every month in the year, in the maritime parts 
of Georgia. 

March 14. Anona triloba? in flower: of very humble 
growth, in this country. [This is probably the dwarf 
species, now called Uvaria parviflora, Torr. & Gray.] 

March 16. Amaryllis Atamasco flowering. It is the 
"Swamp Lily" of the Georgians; and is called Toonau 
by the Creeks, who use its bulbous root as an article of 
food, in times of scarcity. Although most abundant 
about water courses, I have seen it on the highest ridges. 

Aesculus Pavia, "Buck-eye," in flow r er, and very 
abundant. The root of this furnishes a soapy substance, 
peculiarly adapted to the washing of flannels and silks. 



60 



March 21. Sisyrinchium. — Roots fibrous, yellow, and 

extremely pungent. It it considered, by the Greai 
be an infallible Emmenagogue; and i^ used by the I 
an emetic Tt is verdant throughout the j 
• •••••• 

March. 23. Lonicera * ■ Irtns in Bower; and \<tv 
abundant. 

March 24. Arundinaria mae r os p erma % M\. 
small variety i in Bower. This plant, which is bo rarely 
seen flowering, I am informed, may be made to il« 
by wounding i or by transplanting it. 

Cornus Jlariiln in Rower: InvolucTMtn often very la 

MarcJi 27. Triticumkybemum^ "Winter Wheat, "sh 
ing out heads. • •••*♦ 

March 81. TWO <juarts of ripe S(nu I \ 

VirginianaJ gathered thiseveni 

This must suffice for the present; but I hope tof 
you the remainder shortly. ^' « » 1 1 will pardon the im 
lections of this catalogue, when I inform you thai 1 have 
not a single systematic work to refer to, and am obliged 
to depend altogether upon memory In my im 
which is very embarrassing tudent who hardly un- 

derstands the language <»t Botan; 

I loft Savannah, indisposed in body and dejected in 
mind, and came to this country on fo termined to 

try the efficacy of severe exercise, .il"!iu r w ith the diffi- 
culties that attend this mode of travelling in a wild 
country, upon my feeble constitution : and have suc- 
ceeded beyond my expectation, — enjoying, at present, 
a comfortable state of health. The kind reception I 
have met with from Col. B. Hawkins, Superintendent 
of Indian Affairs, in this Department, claims my wann- 
est acknowledgments ; and from his talents and industry 
as a man of science, we may calculate with confidence 
upon his aid in future, — as he has cheerfully promised 



61 

to collect, and send on, either dried specimens, seeds, 
or roots, as may be required. 

I shall be able to add to this Flora, a register of the 
weather. The Agency is situated on the banks of Flint 
river, and on the lowest stratum of the Granite ridge, or 
commencement of the Alleghany mountain. The 
country here is beautifully diversified into gently swell- 
ing hills, narrow vales, and numerous streams of water. 
The shores of these waters are very fertile, — abounding 
in oak, beech, and poplars of enormous size. About 
nine miles north easterly, we find the dividing ridge be- 
tween the waters that enter the Atlantic through the 
medium of the Alatamaha, and those which, falling into 
Flint river, roll on to be lost in the gulf of Mexico. 
Although the appearance of the country, for the greatest 
part of the way between the Ocmulgee and Flint river, 
docs not seem to merit the high and florid character 
which the venerable Bartram has ascribed to it, — as it is 
principally Pine barren, diversified with "ridges of low 
swelling hills" covered with Black Jacks ( Quercus nigra, J 
yet, to the romantic, sentimental traveller, who con- 
ceives himself in a vast wilderness, the occasional ap- 
pearance of an extensive lone meadow has a most 
charming effect, amid the otherwise dreary, naked for- 
est. But even the Pine land, in the vicinity of the 
Agency, produces excellent wheat, — and becomes much 
more fertile as we advance to the westward. At the 
distance of one mile, in this direction, we get out of 
the region of the long-leafed Pine fPinus palustris, L.,) 
when the Oak land, mixed with the short-leafed Pine, 
commences. 

. The Hydrangea quercifolia, which Bartram found at 
"Sweet-water Brook, " about six miles north easterly 
from this place, is very abundant — even on the highest 
hills, — and will soon be in flower. On the fertile shores 
of the river, I have seen it more than ten feet in height. 

6 



62 

The Hypericum aureum is also abundant. The Chionan- 
thus Virginiea! is here only a humble shrub, — attaining 
to the height of a few feet; and is found almost exclu- 
sively on the highest hills. It is now in flower. The 
flower of the Halesia diptera differs very materially from 
that of II. tetraptera, — and has certainly no businr 
the Class Dodecandria, where, I believe, Linn akis has 
placed the genus. The corolla is divided into 4 distinct 
petals; stamina very uniformly 8, completely coal* 
for near two-thirds of their length. But I have no room 
to add more; and therefore remain, with the most 
found respect, your sincere friend and servant, 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLBlfBBEG. 

s<iv<nui<ih, Mmy 'Jf», L812. 

Dkar Sir: Meeting with Mr. , who has just re- 
turned from Burke County, where he has been procur- 
ing burr stones, and who sails this day for Philadelphia, 
I send you on, in haste, four small packets, without hav- 
ing time to select or retain duplicates. All of them (ex- 
cept a parcel in which you will find a short note, signed 
S. Boykin,) I collected in the neighborly »od of MU~ 
ledireville, when on my way to the Creek Nation^ in the 
beginning of February. They consist, of course, prin- 
cipally Of Mosses and Lichens. No. 1, was collected and 
put up by Dr. Samuel Boykin, an amiable and enter- 
prising physician and naturalist, whom I am proud to 
recommend to your attention. He resides in Mill* 
rille, and will be happy to hear from you. 

I have just come on, in haste, from the Creek Agency, 
and am on my way to St. Mary's, where I shall pr< 
bly spend the summer, — having accepted an appoint- 
ment, there, in the surgical department. My collections 



63 

made in the Creek Nation, still remain at the Agency, — 
to be forwarded in boxes to this city ; from whence they 
are all to be sent on to Philadelphia, to the care of Mr. 
Musser, subject to your order. 

I regret the confusion that has been unavoidably pro- 
duced in our correspondence ; but which, I hope, will be 
corrected, should I live to return. In the meantime, I 
must beg that you will write to me, and, if possible, re- 
duce our correspondence to regularity again, — indepen- 
dently of those packages which I now send you, and those 
which you are to receive from the Agency. When I 
hear from you at St. Mary's, my packages shall be put 
up upon our former plan. 

I am, in great haste, my dear sir, ever yours, 

W. B. 

P. S. I still hope to return, and reside in Wilmington ; 
but the state of my health, and some other circumstan- 
ces which I cannot now detail, have induced me to re- 
main a while in this country. Since I wrote last, I have 
been at the Coweta town, on the Chatahoochee river. — 
There are certainly two species of Hydrangea in this 
country. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, June 18, 1812. 

Dear Sir; I am extremely happy to see by your last 
letter, dated Savannah, May 26, that you are returned 
in safety and health from the Creek Nation, — and that I 
have a place mentioned within the reach of the mail, 
where I can address an answer to your letters. I have 
received them all, and return you my best thanks for 
each of them. Each was very pleasing and instructive 
to me. * * * * * 

You are now at St. Mary's, — an excellent situation to 



64 

elucidate Bartram's Travels. If you have a copy, pray 
let me have your observations on his dubioua plan 
especially on Mich as arc without a scientific iiamc * 

* There ii b fiunona root, called, at Augu 
Milledgeville, •/>' "* — highl) d in 

dropsy, and almost every dk What may it 

and rouhl you persuade Dr. Boron to L r <t me seaee 
Beed, — if the plant Lb not known ! I wish, J i k « - w i 
opinion on Cane: Hare we more than one b 
And what is the real Cboitft*, of the Indiana .' Nit s 

9urif*lda,j — or do you find it figured in ( 
alaewhere I Lately I received ■ | I mn our excel 

lent friend, Mr. Elliott, irhich I have n< 
closely: Amongst the plants is an Euphorbim t — pr 
bly the one you mention with a red lower, it i ^ new 
to mi'. Anything you are pleased to send will 

be exceedingly welcome. That you may gain daily 
Dgtfa and good health I wish sincerely. 
I remain with unchangeabl 

sir. jroui mosl obedient hnmM int, 

il. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MtTHLEfl 

St. Nbry'a, September l<h 1812. 

My Dear Sir: Your interesting left 
June, was received on the llth of July, and ha 
much to the obligaiiona I waa already under. I have 

long waited an opportunity to make you BOIM return ; 

and am at length happy to Inform you that I have put 

you up several small packets, and sent them on b 

[* Plerocaulon pyrnostachyum, Elliott & DC] 

[j-Thc "Coontia* was afterwards ascertained to bt umia 

pumila. Sec mbaoqiient correspondence.] 



65 

the Schooner Trimmer, Saunders, of Philadelphia, — 
who has been detained for a week, in consequence of 
equinoctial gales and head winds. They are directed to 
the care of Mr. Musser ; and hope they may be re- 
ceived, — as I have retained no duplicates of many of 
them. They have mostly been collected in the imme- 
diate vicinity of this place, — from Cumberland, Amelia, 
and the shores of Florida. 

Such has been the nature of my engagements, — par- 
ticularly since I received your letter — that it has been 
impossible for me to attend to Botany with any kind of 
success; — a circumstance that I regret extremely, in 
this land of flowers, at a season of the year in which it 
has been so little explored by the Botanist. But my 
zeal has not in the least abated ; and in the midst of 
sickness and confusion, by which I have been sur- 
rounded, and by which my life has been in danger, I 
have never failed to pluck the flowers, — although I 
have been obliged to throw them aside in such a care- 
less way, without having leisure to make notes, that 
many of them, I fear, will be inevitably lost. To put 
up my packages for you in the usual way, or to con- 
tinue my Calendarium Florae has been utterly out of the 
question. But, if what I send on should only arrive 
safely to your care, I shall be satisfied, — as I know you 
will share with me liberally, when I return. My Calen- 
darium, however, was continued up to the time of my 
leaving the Creek Nation, — and for a little time after my 
arrival here. This shall be copied for you, as soon as 
circumstances will permit. 

I am hearty ; but my health is delicate. I shall pro- 
bably return, in October, to look after my family and 
affairs in Wilmington, — but shall, perhaps, return again 
immediately to St. Mary's ; — as I have much reason to 
dread the effects of a northern winter. For years have 
I been struggling on the brink of the grave. Should 

6* 



66 

travelling and a temperate climate restore mo, I shall, I 
hope, be humbly thankful: But should these means fail, 
may I quietly submit to go the mmtf of all the earth ! 

Should I retain by iraj rannah, I will bi 

with me M r. Obxlks's I CM ' Babtb ubtom 

plants, 1 fear I shall obtain but few. The Hibi nn- 

Ujr are now beginning to flower. I hare just obtain 
a beautiful little species from Florida, Bind have obtain 

a pretty correct drawing of it;' along \\ ith a number 

other plants that are new to me ; — all of which shall, as 
early as possible, be submitted to your Inspection. I 

have met with some beautiful - Of / ; "ii 

Cumberland Island* — drawings of which l hopetoofeh 

tain, and might have obtained before DOW, had it not 

been tor the Indisposition of Miss <; 

daughter of the late oelebrated l , — 

whose knowledge of Botany, perhaps, ei 

any other lady in America ; though, lik<- myself, 

in want of ho<>ks to enable her to prosecute the stud] 

advantage. 
The OrekU cMaris % Bfx, is the famot fee's 

ma.-ter," of the Florida Indians. They employ the 
root, both internally and externally, tor the bite "1 this 

renomous reptUe ; but, I fear, with poor success. T 
Creek Indians employ a different plant, or plants, for 

this purpose, — w hieh they call by the same name. Tn 8 

different plants were pointed out to me, while in the 

western country, — both known by the Dame Of ••Rattle 
Snake's master." Neither was in season for investiga- 
tion, during my stay there : but I take one to be the 
Agave Virginia^ — and the other, a species of Erungimm, 
Colonel Hawkins, or Dr. Boykin, will probably send 
me specimens of both. Dr. Wrav, of Augusta, writ 
me that the "Black root" belongs to the Class 8u bff 

•It is Hibiscus Virgiuicus, — as I have rinee ascertained. 
[fit is the Plirocaulon pt/cnoslach^um, Ell. & DC] 



67 

is in flower during the months of September and Octo- 
ber — and is found in abundance at a place called 
"C racker's neck/' — about fifteen miles from Augusta^ 
on the South Carolina side of Savannah river. He says 
he will spare no pains to obtain it. Dr. Boykin has seen 
the plant — informs me that it is found on Ogeeche — that 
he will procure it, if possible, — and has been informed 
of its efficacy in the cure of Dropsy. 

I am not satisfied that there are two species of Cane 
( Arundinaria, Mx. ;) but must reserve what little infor- 
mation I can give, for a future opportunity. The root 
which furnishes the Coontia, of the Creeks, is certainly 
Smilax ;* but I have had no opportunity of referring to 
Catesby, — nor to any other work — to ascertain the spe- 
cies. I hope, however, to obtain good specimens of it. 

I correspond with our excellent friend, Mr. Elliott: 
but regret exceedingly that I shall disappoint his expec- 
tations, as well as yours. 

That long life and health may be yours, is the wish of 
your sincere friend and servant, 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Philadelphia, October 31, 1812. 

Dear Sir : I did expect, when I left St. Mary's, to 
have leisure to visit you, \n Lancaster, before I returned 
to the South, — but am very sorry to inform you that it is 
impracticable ; — as a schooner is now ready to sail, — 
which perhaps affords me the only safe conveyance for 
months to come, and the winter, which I dread, is ap- 
proaching. 

With this, I send you Mr. Oemler's Algae, — which he 

[* Afterwards ascertained to be — not Smilax, but — Zamia pumila. 
See letter of May 27, 1817.] 



68 

is very choice of; and which he expected, when I left 
Savannah, would be delivered by me. I also send a few 
drawings of Georgia and Florida plants, for your in- 
spection, — some of which, I hope, will prove new and 
interesting. 
The* packages which were sent by die schooner Trim- 

mrr, I am sorry to Inform yon arc returned tO St. Mary's; 
the captain, on his arrival in Charleston, having char 

his destination. But I hope they will not be lost, — 
have' written to a friend, in St. Mary's, to secure them. 

lam very anxious to have our Correspondence oner 
more established upon a regular footing; and shall, 
perhaps, be aide to transmit some packages (franked) 

through the medium oi a friend in Washington. 
should you deem those drawings Interesting, I hope 

to have it in my power to prOCUTQ many more, — and 

also to have mere leisure to attend to tih mutton of 

them. Circumstanced as I have been — with scarcely a 

moment's leisure, and without a bo.»k to refer to — I 

hope you will excuse my want of method, and my ne- 
glect ol furnishing yon with notes. 
Along with the Algme % jrou will find a drawing 

Marchantia ; a specimen of AfdJgJWSI OuTBU I I na- 

tive species; and a species of Collinsonia. These are 

mine ; and were left in the packet through mistake : But 
they will be safe under your care. 

With sentiments of warm esteem, I remain, my dear 
sir, your friend and servant, . 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Ijincaster, November 9, 1812. 

Dear Sir: Ever since I had the pleasure to receive 
your friendly letter, dated September 19, at St. Mary's, 



69 

I have anticipated the joy I would have by the packet 
with the Trimmer, and still more by a personal inter- 
view. In both points you deserve my best thanks, for 
your good will and intentions. Circumstances will pre- 
vent the fulfilment ; and we ought to learn to bear dis- 
appointments. 

Your promised Calendarium, I wish to see veiy much. 
Perhaps it may come in a future letter ; and should you 
be able to send the packet, it will always be a great and 
pleasing addition to my Herbarium. Mr. Elliott informs 
me, that the famous "Black root" is Conyza pycnostachya, 
Mx. ( Gnaphalium undxdatuin, Walter.) Mr. Oemler's 
Algae gave me great pleasure. I send them back to 
yourcare, — after having looked over them with some 
attention. We have but few of them. My collection 
of American Fuci and Confer vae is but small ; and I 
long to get more, from such friends as live near the sea 
shore. I add to Mr. Oemler's packet, such as are com- 
mon in our parts. May I expect some of the southern 
ones, by your kindness 1 

Is the Hibiscus, you mention in your former letter, the 
same with the one figured in the drawings] Bartram, 
in his travels, mentions a number of Hibisci, and other 
plants, which I do not know. 

Remember me respectfully to Miss Greene, — whose 
character I have heard with pleasure. Any thing I can 
do for this amiable young lady, shall be done with sin- 
cere pleasure. Are some of the drawings from her 
hands 1 I also return the drawings with great thanks. 
They have convinced me that the southern States con- 
tain many new, and hitherto undescribed, plants. Sev- 
eral of the drawings will want an addition of the Calyx, 
Stamina, Pistillum, Capsula, Receptaculum, and Pap- 
pus, — especially the new plants. I have examined 
them pretty closely ; and will give you my opinion can- 
didly, with the usual proviso, errors excepted ; and with 



70 

the excuse for errors, that I could not look again. * * 
1 mark such as I wish to have in a dried state, with N. 
B. and I beg you will give me all the information 
can, on the unknown plants. Have you shown the 
drawings to Mr. Elliott ! He is an excellent judgt 
every case. So is our friend William Bartram. You 
have, no doubt, his Travels; and are enabled, by tra- 
velling through his classic fields, to elucidate hifl 
Cliptions, and dubious plants. 

If you remain any time yet at Philadelphia, pra\ 

not leave it without seeing two most excellent Botanical 
friends! much esteem; Zacchsvs Collins, ami Co 

DE Serra, lately from Europe. 

And now, my dear sir, (if 1 am nol to sir you this 

time, personally,) I recommend jrou to the prote* 

of the Almighty. .May yen arrive sale at St. Mai 
have constant health, and a long life lull of content- 
ment; and may our correspondence continue with 

pleasure and instruction on both sides. 

Remember my !>e>t respects to Mrs. Baldwin, (d 
she go with you!) to .Mr. Elliott, and Mr. Oemler. I 

remain with unalterable esteem. 

Sir, vour sincere friend, 

H. M. 
P. S. My son-in-law, HBNBT HuPFHAGLE, takes the 
packet to Philadelphia, and will return in a few da] 

Lancaster. If you have time pray drop a line in return, 
and let me know the vessel's name in which you go, 
and the exact time. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, March 20, 1^K3. 
Dear Sir: I owe you an apology for neglecting 
long your excellent letter of the 9th of November, last. 



71 

The hurry I was in, at that time, to arrange my af- 
fairs in Wilmington, made me less attentive than I 
should otherwise have been : but I should have returned 
you an immediate answer, had I not been under the im- 
pression that I had nothing to communicate, worthy of 
your attention. It was not until too late, that I perceived 
your P. S. requesting to be informed of the exact time 
of my sailing, and the vessel's name. It appears that I 
also neglected to inform you, that Mrs. B. and our little 
family were to bear me company. This information is 
almost out of season; but I may still inform you, that 
we sailed from Philadelphia in the Brig Hetty, on the 
23rd of November, and did not land in Savannah until 
the 27th of December following, nor reach St. Mary's 
until the 3rd of February. But, through the blessing 
and protection of that Divine Providence to whom you 
had the goodness to recommend us, — after buffeting 
long the stormy seas, — we reached our destined port in 
health and safety. 

I am putting you up a packet, to be sent by General 
Thomas M. Forman,— who resides at "Rose Hill," near 
Georgetown cross-roads, eastern shore of Maryland. 
He will leave Savannah about the first of April, by land ; 
and may be depended upon for transmitting, carefully* 
the packet to Mr. Musser. I have just received a letter 
from my friend Hoff, of Charleston, — wherein he in- 
forms me that the packet, mentioned in my letter of the 
19th of September, last, had arrived in safety ; and that 
he had sent it on to the care of Mr. Musser by the Far- 
mer's Fancy, together with a letter of advice to you. I 
hope they have been received. 

I have remembered you to Miss Greene. She is 
doubling her diligence, in the pursuit of Botany, — and 
will likewise unite her exertions with Mrs. Baldwin, in 
attending to Entomology. None of the drawings were 
executed by her hand; but two of them, viz: Sesamum 



78 

lndicum, and MespUus arbutifolu^ — were drawn by her 
sister, Mrs. Littlbpibld. The othera were all drawn by 
Mrs. Clark, wife erf Major Amcbsbald Clabk, the I 
master In this place. 

The Srsamum lndicum is n * > t a native; but if HOW 

found growing spontaneously in theoldfiel um- 

berland. Gen. Fobmah inten introduce H into the 

States of Delaware and Maryland, — \\ here I enc 
him to hope it might succeed. 

Respecting the/rail of the Wespilus arbuiifdu^ Mr. 
Lb Cokte informi me tint Ik- has d the fruit 

black % in this country, — but uniformly red. He considers 
it, however, in every other respect, to be the same plant, 

and calls it only a /. I have QOt heard a M 

from Mr. Elliott, since my arrival in this country, — 
and suppose thai ha must be much engaged in hia new 
office, in ( Jharieston. l s him, from inah, 

in January I 

The remainder of m\ ( 

transmitted. [ send you a very fen I t having 

had «in opportunity to collect them. M3 best endes 1 

however, shall always be Used. Tie- Hibiscus men- 
tioned in my Letter of Beptember \ l K 1- the on< 
ured in the drawings, No. 28. It is probably, 
suppose, //. Virginicus % L. I have had the misfortune 

to lose BaBTBAX'S Travis, in Savannah, — and 1 have 

not been aide to procure another copy. I have sent to 
France, to obtain MiCHAUx'fl FWo, fcc M which I hope 
will come over sate. The specimens n\ hich 1 lefl at the 
Creek Agency, 1 expect shortly to receive, vii DarietL 

Possibly they may be sent on for you, by (Sen. 1 

I anticipate more leisure than heretofore, to attend to 
Botany, should I be favored with health, — which, at pre- 
sent, is promising: and I most heartily wish, with you, 

that our •• correspondence may continue long with plea- 
sure and instruction on both sides." 



73 

Mrs. Baldwin joins me heartily in wishes for your 
health and happiness. I remain with affectionate re- 
gard, my dear sir, your obliged friend, 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, March 31, 1813. 

Dear Sir : I sit down to fulfil my promise of trans* 
mitting to you the remainder of my imperfect Calenda- 
rlum Florae, kept at the Creek Agency. 

April 1, 1812. Convallaria racemosa flowering. Note : 
There was a little snow fell this day, on the Oconee, 
twelve miles above Milledgeville. Many of the more 
delicate native plants were injured by the frost, at the 
Agency; particularly the Amorpha fruticosa. 

Aprils. Agrostemma Githago (Cockle) in flower, 
among the wheat. 

April 7. Triticum (called Early May Wheat) in flower. 

April 8. Liriodendron tulipifera in flower. 

April 17. Robinia pseud-acacia In flower. The foliage 
on the forest trees appears now, in general, to be per- 
fect: But, while some of the Oaks have full-sized 
leaves, others are just formed. 

April 18. Melia Azedarach (Pride of China) flowering. 
This is the universal ornamental tree, in the southern 
country ; and has even found its way into the wilderness. 

April 20. Mitchella repens in flower. 

April 21. Silene ?* This has been transmitted to you, 
No. 903. A most beautiful plant, found on Flint river. 
The whole plant is viscid — 8 to 10 or 12 inches in height ; 
stem and leaves hairy, of a pale green ; peduncles ter- 
minal and axillary ; 5 of the stamens arranged beauti- 

[*This is, doubtless, the Silene fimbriata, Baldw. in Ell. not of 
Sims; now the S. Baldwinii, Nutt DC. & Torr. & Gray.] 

7 



74 

fully between each of the 5 petals — the other 5 in the 
centre ; styles shorter than the stamens, stigmas simple ; 
anthers twin ; petals gradually widening to the extremity; 
and terminating with the most singular and elegant 
fringe, — each petal ornamented internally with a hairy 
margin: width of the flower 2J inches. 

April 22. Dactyl is glomerate (orchard grass) in flower, 
in the garden. It grows here, most Luxuriantly — attain- 
ing to the height of more than B feet, and spreading 
greatly. It ought to be cultivated generally, in this 
country. •...••••• 

I find I have not mom to finish, here, — and will th 
fore go on, in future; and also give you a Cab ■mlurium 
from St. Mary's. 

Your friend and servant, 

W. B. 

P. S. Since my last letter was written, I have] 

my specimens, from the Creek Agency, in tolerable 
order. I immediately put up a small packet of (hem, 

and sent it to Savannah, — hoping it might arrive in time 

to be takefi on by Gen. ForUi • • * 

The fruit of Aesculus Pavia is used, by the Creeks, to 
intoxicate iish. The Asmrum I 'j iicum is called, by 
the Creeks, Luckau loobe ThJuca — ignifying "Large 

Turtle Liver." I am not certain that it i> considered as 
important by them, as a medicine: But it i^ much es- 
teemed by the whit 

Along with the specimens from the Agency, Colonel 
Hawkins was so good as to send me roots of Hydrangea 
que re i folia, Hypericum avreum, and Hales ia diptera, — 
with a pint of the seeds of the last ; — all of which I hope 
will flourish. I am about to try the efficacy of the 
"Black root" in a bad case of general dropsy. I find 
'enty of the root, here. 



75 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, April 9, 1813. 

Dear Sir: As I have just put you up another packet, 
which shall be forwarded the first opportunity, — I go on 
with my Calendarium Florae. 

April 22, 1812. Iris versicolor in flower: varying, here, 
in color, from a deep blue to almost clear white. 

April 25. Droseralongifolia? ( spathulata, of Le Conte;) 
veiy delicate ; scape not 3 inches ; leaves long, hairy; 
scape many-flowered ; petals 4, broad, clear white. 

April 25. Galega Virginiana [Tephrosia, Pers.] in 
flower. 

April 27. Itea Virginica in flower. 

April 28. Rhus radicans do. 

April 29. Kalmia latifolia in full bloom. 

April 30. Datura Stramonium. 

May 1. Spigelia Marilandica in flower. 

May 3. Mollugo verticillata — in cultivated grounds. 

May 4. Ceanothus Americanus, Viburnum acerifolium. 

May 5. Phlox maculata, Bartsia coccinea. 

May 12. Wheat ripe ; Solanum tuberosum in bloom. 

May 18. Aristolochia Serpentaria. There is another 
species, with very long, lance-linear leaves. 

May 20. Sambucus Canadensis, Phytolacca decandra. 

May 23. Pontederia cordata, Saururus cernuus. 

May 23. Conyza pycnostachya, Mx. [Pterocaulon, Ell.] 
"Black root." 

May 26. Samolus Valerandi. 

May 26. Rhexia luteal flower white; but, in drying, 
turns yellow. 

May 30. St. Mary's. Achillea Millefolium in flower. 

June 7. Verbena hastata in flower. 

June 20. Tripsacum dactyloides. 

June 29. Erigeron Canadensis. * * * 

This is the end of my imperfect Calender for 1812. 



76 

But I hope to make out one more perfect, this season. 

From May 4, to 10th, inclusive, was a journey to 
Coweta, on Chatahooche, and back again to the Agency. 
When I send the specimens, I can add some more par- 
ticulars. May 17, to 23d, inclusive, includes my journey 
from the Agency to Savannah, — and from thence to St. 
Mary's, — where I arrived on the 30th, having had hut 
little opportunity of botanizing on the road. — April 19. 

Since writing the above, I have sent off the packet 
above mentioned, via New York, in the schooner Spar- 
tan, Capt. Chase, — who, I presume, has Bailed before 
this time, from Savannah. I directed it to the care of 
Dr. Mitchill, — who I hope will forward it with caret 
should it reach him in safety. But I have the mortifica- 
tion to inform you, that the packets which I sent to 
Savannah, to be carried en in safety by Gen, POBMAK, 
were not received in time, — owing to the shameful neg« 
ligcnce of the gentleman to whom they were intrusted, 
who forgot to deliver them until toe late. They have 
been returned to me can-fully, by Dr. COLLOOK; and 
to-morrow will be pot on hoard of a schooner, Capt 
M'Cobb, who will sail immediately for New Fork. 
They, also, are directed to the care of Dr. Mitchill; 
and, as the schooner will be under Spanish colon, will 
be likely to pass unmolested, I shall put you up a 
packet, every opportunity, — and collect as much as 
possible. It is now a gay and delightful season, iu this 
department. In my next, I shall commence B Ca& nihi- 
rium Florae for this season. Along with it, I keep a re- 
gister of tho weather, the prevailing diseases, fee. 

Mrs. B. joins me in wishes for your health and happi- 
ness. I am yours sincerely, 

W. B. 



77 

DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, April 20, 1813. 

Dear Sir: I was overjoyed to see by your letter, da- 
ted March 20, at St. Mary's, that you had arrived in 
safety, with Mrs. Baldwin, at your destined port. I had 
often inquired in vain after you, and felt very uneasy. 
Neither Mr. Oemler, nor Mr. Elliott, returned any 
answer to my inquiring letters : However, I have seen 
in the papers, that the Hetty had arrived at Savannah. 
Our times are so, that we must expect to be disappointed 
very often, — especially if letters or packages are sent by 
vessels. 

Your packages, by the Farmer's Fancy, have never ar- 
rived, — although a letter of notice, from Mr. Hoff, came 
to Mr. Musser. If I remember rightly, a schooner of 
that name, as a packet from Charleston, was burnt at 
Lewistown, by the British, — and but very little saved. I 
am exceedingly sorry that such valuable specimens 
should be lost, — and still hope to recover something. I 
daily wish for the safe arrival of General Forman, and 
your succeeding package ; probably 1 may hear from 
him, when I go on a proposed visit to Philadelphia, in 
the beginning of next May, 

Your second letter, dated March 31, has just come to 
my hands. How shall I sufficiently thank you for your 
trouble, in copying your Calendarium Florae held 
amongst the Creeks! It gave me great pleasure ; and I 
wish with all my heart you may find leisure to send me 
the continuation, — and whatever you can add, at St. 
Mary's. Our Flora, in the year 1812. began, March 18, 
with Alsine media [Stellaria, Sm.]. 26, Poa annua. April 
3, Anemone hepatica. 4, Hydrocotyle bipinnata [Erigenia 
bullosa, Nutt. T. & G.] Tussilago Farfara. My standard 
plants, Morus rubra, May 22, Robinia pseud-acacia, June 

6. That is very late : other years, May 20, or 27. In 

7* 



78 

this year, 1813, the Flora began, March 20, with Hydro- 
cotyle bipinnata, and Alsine media. In your Calendarinm, 
I find a number of plants which I would be very triad to 
see. * * * The Thlaspi Bursa Pastoris I take to 
be a native [sed quere 1 W. D.] The Orokancke Americana 
is with us, also, on the roots of trees* If you let it stand 
in water, it turns the water black ; and probably will be 
useful for a black dye, or as an astringent Rubus, or 
common Blackberry, is more vilhsus, Hurt. Kew. than 
fruticosus. You have another Blackberry to the south- 
ward, as well as in the Jerseys— -jn/Hs teraoiit, sfassfis, 
subtus tomentosis — figured in Ahuott's Insects^ — which 
is not yet in the system.* When your specimens by 
General Fokman arrive, I will add a number of queries, 
and desire your information, You are in a real Para- 
dise, for plants. I have a»k<-,i you, already, concerning 
some plants, figured, in your neighborhood, where th<- 
flowers were not plain enough. • • * 

I have been, last winter, pretty clear of rheumatism, 
but had to beware of every excursion. My correspon- 
dence with Mr. Collins, was brisk; H«' is a very valu- 
able correspondent. Mr. LYOfl has returned from 
England, and confirms the death of WlLLDgNOW.f Mr. 

COKREA DE SeKRA, the excellent lJotamSt iVulll Port! 

is still at Philadelphia; but intends to return to Europe, 
next June. 

Dr. Barton, it seems, has published the first B classes 
of his Flora, — but has sent all the copies to England; 
and none are left tor the American Botanists, who want 

[*This is probably the Rubuscuneifoliu8,PuTah,ToTT. e\ Grimy, &c] 

[fThc tardiness with which Intelligence was then communis 
across the Atlantic, contrasts remarkably with the ex edition of this 
era of Steam Packets. Professor Willdk.now, the intimate 
respondent of Dr. Muhlenberg, had been dead upwards of two years, 
at the date of this letter.] 



79 

a Flora most. My Catalogue has lain two years with 
the printer, W. Hamilton ; and, after all my spurring, 
is printed to Monadelphia. He will only print 400 copies, 
for fear of losing too much. If you have any informa- 
tion, or specimens, in the preceding classes, they would 
still be very acceptable. The Algae are now my favorite 
study. Unluckily, I am at a distance from the sea 
shore, — and depend entirely on the kindness of my 
friends. Whatever you can find, will be a great acqui- 
sition to me. 

I am very sorry that you lost Bartram's Travels : they 
contain much, but imperfect information. So Walter. — 
Pray, have you examined the southern species of 
Pinus ? — and, what is Pinus glabra, squarrosa, and lutea, 
of Walter 1 Walter has, also, two species of Zizania : 
(a) aquatica, panicula ejfusa,floribus supra masculis, infra 
foemineis. This I take to be our common "Water Oats," 
— the clavulosa, of Mx: — (b) palustris, paniculata, floribus 
infra masculis, supra foemineis. This I do not know. 
You have certainly two species, at the South; and you 
wilLbe the best judge to decide, — as you have seen the 
clavulosa. I still admire, and collect, whatever is Grass : 
but, hitherto, I have but one Zizania. 

You mention that our mutual friend, Elliott, is at 
Charleston; — pray, in what office'? His last letter to 
me was dated Dec. 26 : — when he had not received mine, 
of Dec. 3. I wrote again, January 15, but have received 
no answer. Probably he is engaged in public business, 
and from home. Should you write to him, pray remem- 
ber my sincere esteem for him. He is a most excellent 
friend, and a very valuable correspondent. Have you 
observed, in your travels, an Octandrous plant, which 
Mr. Elliott discovered, — and which, in my catalogue, 
I have named Elliottia racemosa^ I wish to have infor- 
mation concerning the fruit, — whether it is a Capsula, 
or Bacca. Mr. Oemler had the shrub, once, in his gar- 



80 

den. From Harmony, beyond Pittsburg, I received, 
last fall, several valuable roots. They are now in good 
order, — and being partly new, please me much. Have 
you a plant, near St. Mary's, called "Moyberrics," — used 
for pies — habit of a Rktmmust And have you 8 
Bartram's "Physick Nui n (Indian Olive, Conjuror's 
Nut,)— caule 3-prdali ; faiiu opporitis t ovatis, we 
drupa axillaris Mvaeformil Lyon says it belongs to 
Dioecia Tetrandria. Bartram has, also, a Tallow \ut, 
Wild Lime, I do not know; a Malva paniculata, and 
volubilis ; and several Pruni. 

Remember my best respects to Mrs. Baldwin; and, 
if possible, to Miss Gkf.lnk, — who lias so nobly UB 
taken to assist an absent Mend, with the riches of Flora. 
Mr. Hamilton, often mentions ber name to me. 

In anxious expectation of seeing the specimens soon, 
which you have scut — and a continuation of your letl 
I remain unchangeably, sir, your mod obedient servant, 

and sincere friend, ]f. M. 

P. S. Directly after my \ iait to Philadelphia, I will do 

myself the pleasure to write you a long letter, — with 

every information I can get, there, from CORRKA, I 
lins, Bartram, (John is dead, William still all 
M'MAHOlf, LTON, and others. \V. Hamilton, I hear, is 
alive, — hut lost to the Science. Whether I shall find 
our other friend, Dr. B. at home, or in a humor to speak 
upon the science, I do not know. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, May 15, 1-1:1 
Dear Sir: Your letter, dated the 20th ult came regu- 
larly to hand. I am sorry that the specimens by the 
Farmer's Fancy are lost, — as they consisted of a great 
part of my collections made last summer; and of which 



81 

I retained but few duplicates. Some of them I believe, 
were new, or doubtful, — particularly a little species of 
Plantain, found near Augusta — Plantago (linearifolia) 
unknown to Mr. Elliott;* and a little plant, — habit 
Melanthium, — but the germ appears different; found on 
Oc mul gee, &c. * * * * * 

I opened my Calendarium Florae, here, the 10th of 
February ; when the peach trees and cultivated straw- 
berries appeared in flower: also, a Tetradynamous 
plant, very common in this country, which I am not 
able to make out, satisfactorily. f 

Feb. 15. Centaurella verna. I saw this plant in flower, 
last year, in January, — near Savannah. 

March 3. Gelsemium nitidum (yellow Jasmine.) This, 
also, may be seen in flower almost every month ; but 
particularly in autumn, winter and spring. 

March 15. Pinus palustris. I have paid so little at- 
tention to the Pines, that I am unable to answer your 
queries respecting them ; but will do my best, hereafter. 
• March 19. Rubus villosus (common Blackberry) in 
flower. 

March 23. Salvia lyrata, Hydrocotyle umbellata, Quercus 
virens, Lonicera semper vir ens. 

March 25. Robinia pseudacacia. Poly gala lutea. 

March 26. Anona triloba. Tradescantia Virginica. 

March 29. Olea Americana. Cnicus horridulus 1 

March 31. Vaccinium frondosum. Ophrys spiralis. 

I rejoice sincerely that you have at length published 
a part of your extensive and interesting Catalogue. — 
Surely 400 copies will very soon be distributed. A num- 
ber of copies, I am certain, would be taken here. I long 
to obtain one. Willdenow's Linnaeus, and Michaux 

[* Probably the Plantago inter mpta, Poir. & Ell. sparsijlora, Mx.] 

[f Afterwards ascertained, by Dr. B. to be the Erysimum pinna, 
turn, Walter. Sisymbrium canescerts, Nutt Torr. & Gray.] 



82 

on the American Oaks, have been forwarded to me by 
land ; but they have not reached me, and J fear will get 
lost by the way. They were obtained forme, by M'Ma- 
HON, in Philadelphia. 

I am surprised that Dr. B. should send the whole of 
his work to England, — nor can I guess bis motive. Pos- 
sibly, when you see him, he may be in a humor to in- 
form you. * * * 

By the same mail that brought your letter, I had the 
melancholy intelligence of the death of Dr. llrsii. The 
loss of such a man is not easily repaired. And Will- 
denow, too, is gone ! 

I have not yet heard from Mr. Elliott. He has b< 
elected President of a Bank, in Charleston. 

I have made out to find a copy of BABTRAM'fl Tra 
Which I have borrowed: V>\\\ I have not the Flora of 

Walter. — Your long letter will l>'' gratefully received. 

To all your requests I will attend as faithfully iis ]m 
ble : and for all your kindness, attention and trouble, in 
furnishing me with so much valuable information, per- 
mit me to return my warmest thanks, — while I remain 
most sincerely your friend and servant, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERCr TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Istncasti r. May 17, l^lM. 

Dear Sir : Your letter of April 9 and 19, arrived s 
much to my satisfaction. Receive my best thank- 
the Calendarium of your Flora, in continuation of the 
first part, — acknowledged by me in a letter which went 
from here, April 20. 

The promised packets are, I am afraid, all lost. The 
first, by the "Fancy" I suppose was burnt at Lewistown. 
The others, by the way of New York, are, at least, not 



83 

arrived. I have written to Muhlenberg & Schmidt, 
merchants of New York, to inquire. If your packets 
are directed to them, they will come safe. If they are 
lost, my loss will indeed be great. So many new plants ! 
I am afraid water carriage will be tried in vain. Per- 
haps something may be done by land. I formerly re- 
ceived specimens of small Mosses, from Carolina, fas- 
tened with a small piece of wafer, or glue, to the inside 
of a letter, without raising the price of the letter. Per- 
haps something might be done in the same manner. — 
Seeds might be sent, loose, if out of the capsule. 

If you can find time to continue your Calendar ium, 
pray oblige me with it. Nothing can be more useful 
than such a calender. I suppose six weeks may be the 
difference of the climate. If you add the color of the 
flower, and a short description, of the new plants, you 
will oblige me still more. * * * 

Grasses remain my favorites ; and whatever you find 
to be different from ours will be a valuable acquisition 
to me. Seeds, only a few of each sort, would make no 
bulk, — if you can expect they will vegetate, and stand 
our climate. 

Since my last letter, I have been at Philadelphia ; but 
I had constant rain, and but little opportunity to see 
my friends, or any garden. Dr. Barton is well. Mr. 
Lyon now returned: his nursery is excellent, and very 
rich in southern plants. He has two kinds of Euonymus, 
different from ours; — one with very narrow leaves;* 
from Cumberland Island, — the other, near atropurpur- 
eus. Is your new one constantly viridiflorusl He 
has three kinds of Philadelphus — two very villous. 

Mr. M'Mahon I did not see. I spent my leisure time 
with Mr. Zaccheus Collins, — an excellent Botanist, 
who has seen and examined many plants. 

Of Michaux's Tree description, nothing has arrived 

[♦Probably E. ancvslifolius, Plrsh, Torr. & Gray.] 



84 

lately. I wish much you could sec this, and give your 
opinion on it, — especially on his Nyssa. We have only 
one, here — the sy/vatica, or villosa ; the others are from 
the south. How many have you seen, in your tra\ 
I repeat my wishes for an explanation of Walter's dif- 
ferent Bpeciefl of Pin us and Zizania. 

By a letter received lately from Mr. Elliott, I see be 
would be in future at Charleston, — which will be ■ new 
and wide field for him. You are both happy in being 
at the sea shore ; but you may expect a little trouble, 
during these times, May you both be preserved by the 
protection of a kind Providence. 

Should your packets arrive, I >liall have die pleasure 

to sec a number of new and valuable plants to me, and 
to write fully my opinion on them. Our season, this 
spring, has been rainy; the Cakndarium mueh like b<H, 
May 11, MorUB t Rfl a standard plant, began to flower. 

Robinin has not ye! flowered. Prunm* Virginian* 
(vera, nec Berotina,) began -May ll. & M fUm me- 
lanodarpa. Yon bave a Pre***, in Oeor| ribm 

moemo$i$ % foiiit pubewcentibue ; have you set n it? 

T am very sorry that you have losl B I 

at Savannah. Much is to be explained ; and you would 
be able to do it, now, in a very satisfactory manner. 
Probably you have Been almost all his dubious and new 
plants. William is still alive; John, his brother, is i^one. 

I drop the pen tor tear of tiring you too mueh ; but 

not without assurances of my unchangeable esteem and 

friendship, — and my besl respects to Mrs. BALDWIN. I 

remain, dear sir, vour most obedient humble servant, 

H. M. 



85 

DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, June 1, 1813. 

Dear Sir : I am happy to inform you, that one of your 
packets addressed to Dr. Mitchill, containing numbers 
806 — 923, has arrived here on the same day with your 
letter dated May 15. The other packet I expect every 
day, — as it has arrived also at Philadelphia. Dr. Mitch- 
ill gave each to my son, of the house of Muhlenberg 
& Schmidt, merchants at New York. They are very 
willing to forward any packet to me, if the intercourse 
remains open. Receive my grateful thanks for your 
kindness. 

The continuation of your Calendarium pleases me 
much, and I thank you in particular for it. If you can 
possibly add, with dubious plants, a number of speci- 
mens, it will be of great use to me. To show you the 
difference of the climate, I mention a few of the plants 
common to us : 

Fumaria aurea, Feb'y 20. At Lancaster, April 20. 

Prunus domestica, March 1. " " 19. 

Viola palmata, 
Mespilus arbutifolia, 

Morus papyri/era. 



4. " " 26. 

10. « May 13. 



17. " " 13. 

19. « » 25. 

23. " " 22. 

25. " " 24. 



Rubus villosus, 

Ornithogalum umbellatum, 

Robinia pseudacacia, 

Geranium Carolinianum, " 28. " " 29. 

Almost two months difference : Perhaps the plants will 
be nearer, when warm weather comes. Our first phane- 
rogamous plant, was Hydrocotyle bipinnata, March 20, 
the next, Alsine media. 

I mark a few plants from your St. Mary's Calendarium, 
which I would be glad to know closer : 

"March 4. Helianthus ?*' Has it any thing like Cliry- 
sogonum Virginianum, which you sent from the Creek 
Agency! 8 



86 

"March 5. Rubus." Our Pennsylvania Dewberry is 
R. trivialis, Willd. and Michaux. Another southern 
Dewberry, is flagellar is, Willd. 

Marchl. Antirrhinum arvei) 

March 23. Bignon ia erucigera — if it is not caprcolata, Mx. 

March 26. Anona grand ijlnra. I have no specii 

excepi triloba. 

You mention a Plant ago linearifolia, which I shall be 
very glad to see. Mr. Z. Collins discovered a similar 
one, three miles from Philadelphia, which seems to 
more than a variety of maritima* 

What I have Been in my last visit to Philadelphia, 1 
mentioned to you in my lasl letter, dated May 17, when 
I also wrote to our mutual and excellent friend, Mr. i 
liott. since that time, nothing material has happen 
excepi Chat I «l an affectionate letter from Mr. 

Oehlbe, al Savannah, with 19 nt sorts ofsee< 

from his garden, — rhielly UiJ>isrus^ They W wn 

immediately. I will now add what I know 

ciinens, after first and second sight, and before J had 

time to add them to my Herbarium. When a i 

Comparison shall be made, should I then find any thing 
new, I Will mention it in a future h Iter: and J beg you 

w ill candidly inform me, where you find an amendment 
necessary, or remaining doubts. 

The plant No. 1, figuired, 1 wish to We have t 

Poly gala corymfata, Mx. cymota^ Walter. Can it be that! 
My Catalogue is now in the Oynandria i — going on very 

slow. \Yhencvcr it is finished, certainly I will send you 
a copy. You will find much to add; but a beginning 
must be made. Dr. B. will have an opportunity to 
criticize. If only the science gains, 1 am satisfied. I 
hope to see your other packet soon, and will hasten to 
write again. Health and prosperity attend you. My 
best respects to Mrs. Baldwin. II. M. 



87 

P. S. I enclose a new genus, of Willdenow, from 
Carolina, — a water Moss — Azolla Caroliniana. Have 
you ever seen if? 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, June 5, 1813. 

Dear Sir : Your letter of May 17, is now before me ; 
and I hope that you have before this time received mine 
of the 15th. It is with extreme regret I learn that my 
packets, via New York, had not been received. Both 
the vessels arrived safe in New York, after uncom- 
monly short passages. It is now two weeks since I 
heard of the arrival of M'Cobb, who carried the last 
packet. Both Chase and M'Cobb promised most faith- 
fully to deliver them to Dr. Mitchill. They were 
endorsed to you, and directed to the care of Dr. Sam- 
uel L. Mitchill, New York,— and to Mr. Musser, in 
Philadelphia. It will be a pity, indeed, if they are lost, 
after having reached in safety their destined port. But 
we must indeed submit to disappointments; they seem 
destined to befal us, here below. On your account, 
more than my own, I regret these frequent miscarria- 
ges, — as you cannot readily have the plants replaced. 

On the 22d of May, I forwarded you another packet, 
by land,— commencing with number 982, and ending 
with 1044. This was sent by Mr. Edwards, of the U. 
S. Navy,— who will make some little stay in Washing- 
ton ; after which, he goes to Philadelphia,— and he has 
promised to deliver the packet, himself, to Mr. Musser. 
I shall now send you a few plants, in the mail, through 
the favor of Langdon Cheves, Esq. Washington. 

I have not leisure, now, to add much to my Calenda- 
rium. 

April 2. Xanthium strumarium in flower. 



88 

April 4. Vaccinium stamineum, Viburnum dentatum. 

April 9. Portulaca oleracea. 

April 13. Argemone Mexicana, Hopea tinctoria. 

April 15. Mitchella rcpens. 

April 19. Andromeda Mariana — very beautiful, here. 

Apr il 2 5. 8a ururus rr muu s . 

April 28. Andromeda paniculata. 

April 30. Sambucus Canadensis. 

Your several requests shall be complied with to the 
utmost of my power. I have observed (he Ptifyfatft, of 
which I gave you a short description in my last letter, 
to be sometimes branched; and I have since seen it 
also 8} feet high. Mr. Johm Li Contb informed me a 
few days ago, i>y letter, thai he has known this plant for 
a long time,— and that he calls it /'. praealta. Ibeliere 
I shall he able t<» Ibroisfc \ i a, before long, with a spe- 
\ still larger ipiarta, Jhre alk>< in Florida. * • 

In great haste, I remain, my deal >ir, W. B. 



TO THE HON. I. KINGTON CITY. 

Dear Sir: I take the liberty of Bending, enclosed to 

your care, some .Marine Plants, &C, for Dr. Mthlkn- 
BBEG, — which I beg you will have the goodness to 
ward, and greatly oblige your sincere friend and servant, 

W. BALDWIN. 
T. S. The British have lately burned serend packa- 
ges which I sent on, via Charleston and Philadelphia, 
in the mouth of the Delaware. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, June 11, 1813. 
Dear Sir: I embrace a moment to put you up a few 
more specimens, and to write you a few lines. 



89 

My white-flowered Sisyrinchium seems to differ mate- 
rially from both yours. It is Spatha diphylla, subaequali, 
floribus longiore; scapo alato, ramoso. Root fibrous, yel- 
low and acrid.* We have two blue species here; — 
one of which does not appear to differ from the white 
one, in any respect, except the color of the flower. 

Of Zizania, I see none yet. Miss Greene has just 
procured for me a singular Tetradynamous plant, order 
Siliculosa, — with a curious 4-sided, jointed Silicle. It is 
much branched; stem succulent; leaves very fleshy, 
tasting like cabbage. f Of Pinus and Nyssa, I am yet 
unable to give you any definite account. My speci- 
mens of Euonymus I cannot now lay my hands on, — 
and cannot say whether the flowers are uniformly virid, 
or not. I hope before long to have my Herbarium bet- 
ter arranged, and my notes reduced to some kind of 
order. Like my preceptor, Dr. B. I have too many 
irons in the fire. I am always in too much of a hurry; 
and perhaps have my notes respecting a single plant 
scattered over half a dozen pieces of paper. J A few 
days ago, I met with a beautiful species of Asclepias, on 
the Florida side of St. Mary's (Pine barren) : stem sim- 
ple, slender, about 18 inches: leaves opposite and 
alternate, linear; umbel terminal, supporting a few 
lilac-colored flowers on long capillary peduncles [Po- 
dostigma pubescens? Ell.]. * * * * 

I shall conclude by adding a little of my Calendar. 

May 2. Conyza pycnostachya [Pterocaulon] in flower, 
Lepidium Yirginicum. 

[*This was probably nothing more than ^variety of"& Eermu- 
diana," Ell.] 

[f Doubtless the Bunias Cukile,!,. Cakile marltima, Scop. T.& G.] 

[*This was, to a remarkable extent, the practice of his Botanical 
"Preceptor, Dr. B/' — and must have been attended with much in- 
convenience, — if not with some confusion.] 

8* 



90 

May 3. Phytolacca decandra, Passi flora inrarnata. 

May 5. Chamaerops srrrulata. The young shoots of 

this plant are far more delicious than the -eabbag< 
(Cham</ P net to). The low land round BL Mai] 
is covered with ttiia regetable. 
May 8. Majrnoits gia< i, E t<* niculacrum. 

May 11.// 

May 17. A'///-/ ./ \I\. A n»a birraJte, Eartr. 

May 28. Polypn mum pt "Black*b 

ripening. 

.)/:;/ 24. Call inn- r ■ | , //i/7 in ll 

M ty 2T. P&mla^po major, 

H , 80: U "W • 1 ion. * * 

The month of April s 

.1 delightful wrath . m 

yt/>r/7, 7'J — r;uiL r to 88°. — 

Moan temperature, in May, 74 — nu m .v$° to90°. 

The weather i^ d nm: raltrjr. The mercury 

od this day, at :\ 1\ M. at 91 in the | l.aek 

Piazza. 

Accept my beet thank >ur attention to my fa 

letters, and the raluable Information jrou slwa m 

me. Mrs. B. and Miss ad their i> 

wishes to JTOU. We arc all anxious to obtain your (ata- 
logue t could we dei mode <'t' convt 

With undiminished esteem, I remain my d 
JTour friend and servant, 

w. & 

r. s. June 13. [have this moment received ■ l» 
from our valuable friend, Mr. Elliott,— who, having 

got through the fatigue and difficulty of removing h 
family, and embarking in a dcw occupation, again 

turns his attention to his favorite pursuit, — and again 
oilers his interesting eorrespondeiu 



91 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, June 19, 1813. 

Dear Sir: To make up, as well as I can, for losses, 
I send you on again a few more specimens, by mail. I 
send you also a few seeds. The Sciiyus is found in 
moist situations. It is called, I believe, "Wire grass," 
in this country. I continue my Calendar. 

June 1. Vitis — "Small Winter Grape," in flower. 
June 2. Trichostema dichotomum. "Wild Cherries," 
(Prunus Virginiana) ripe. 
June 7. Erigeron Canadense in flower. 
June 13. Senecio hieracifolius, Cicuta maculata. 
June 17. Clethra alnifolia. 

I should be glad if you would share with Mr. M'Ma- 
hon such seeds as I may send you, that you can spare. 
He was very kind in furnishing me with garden seeds, 
when I left Philadelphia ; and without which I should 
have had a poor garden, here. 

The weather is now very sultry and dry : the mercury 
has been for several days at 92° at 3 P. M., and at mid- 
night, above 80°. Such warm nights are not common, 
here, — unless the wind has blown long from the west- 
ward. It has been S. E. for several days. 

Since I began my letter, the mail has arrived, and 
brought me your excellent favor of the 1st of June ; — 
for which accept my best thanks, — and rest assured that 
no exertions of mine shall be wanting, to compensate 
you for your trouble. 

I hope in a very little time to put you up a large 
packet, which I flatter myself will reach New York in 
safety (unless blockaded,) as it goes in a Spanish ves- 
sel, and will probably sail in 3 or 4 weeks. I have 
written to Augusta for specimens of the Plantago linearis 



92 

folia, — which is now in season, — and which I hope will 
be received. 

May every blessing attend you : and that l"hL r life and 
health may be incere wish of yourfr 

and servant, 

W. B. 



TO Till: HON. LANGDON CBBYB8, WASHINGTON. 

Dsab Sir: If I intrude upon you too much, by my 
frequent packai you are put to inconvenience in 

any way, [»ray be - to inform 016. 

I am, dear sii . 

W . B. 



m;. Mrni. i • Of. 

Lancaster^ June 22, 1M:<. 

Dea&Sib: four letter dated June5,arrh this 

daj . and is a new proof of your Friendship to m 

<-« ive my best thanks for it, and the Bne specimeni 

cl<»sc I. Perhaps we can continue the correspond* 

in the same u as the Session continues. 

Probably yon have received my letter 

June 1, in which I acknowledged the receipt 

[mens B07— 028. Thej were all in i:*"'^ order, and 
I gave you my opinion on them as well as I could; and 
1 find no reason yet to alter my opinion. Perhaps I 
may when I put them up in my Herbarium, and com- 
pare them more closely. 

On the 14th of June I had the satisfaction to 
your other packet, numbered 024 — 081, which had b 
carried to Reading, where I found it. I have not yet 



93 

found time to examine the plants with accuracy: How- 
ever, I will give you my opinion as they appear to me> 
at first and second sight. 

"926," Sarracenia minor, Walter, adunca, Hort. Kew* 
[variolaris, Mx. T. & G.]. 

"927," Avena glumosa, Mx. distinct, I think, from 
spicata, L. 

"939," Dalibarda fragarioides, Mx. (I) but our Penn- 
sylvania plant has r folia ternata [ Waldsteinia lobata, Torr. 
& Gray.]. 

"940," Trillium cernuum (verum) I see for the first 
time. 

"950," Mespilus aestivalis, Walter, an Crataegus glan- 
dulosa, Mxl nee Willd. [see Torr. & Gray, under Cratae- 
gus, sp. 12 & 14.]. 

"968," Phlox pilosa, L. nee Mx. sed forsan aristata. 
******* 

The rest of the numbers, sent by land, are not yet 
arrived. Mr. Musser is now at Lancaster, and will re- 
turn to Philadelphia in a few days, — when I hope to 
receive them, on their arrival, in safety. I add the 
names of the Cryptogamia, enclosed in the letter, as 
far as they occur to me at first sight; deferring some 
more observations for a future letter. * * * 

I shall be extremely glad to see the new plants of Mr. 
Le Conte, — who appears to be a very close observer. 
Indeed, a fine constellation of Botanists has risen in the 
southern states. You are warmer, and shine brighter, 
than those in the north. 

Utricularia is a very interesting genus, and deserves 
a close examination. So Asclepias. Of Aletris, I have 
but two species ; — the farinosa, L. figured by Willde- 
now, in his Hort. BeroL and the aurea, Elliott. — Is the 
Juglans anomala the same with Lyon's "Leather coats 1" 

You have heard, no doubt, that Mr. W. Hamilton has 
gone from us. He departed in the beginning of this 



94 

month. What will become of his Garden, is not known. 
It was almost a wilderness since sonv time. There is 
now a great Entomologist in our parts lately from Paris, 
— a Mr. Escher. Probably he may brave! to the south- 
ward, and may call at Charleston, Savannah, an 
Mary's. I have told him that he will find great riches 
in your part<. 

I conclude with my best wishes for your health, 
beg to be remembered to Mrs. Baldwin, — and remain 
with unchangeable respect, 

Sir, vour sincere friend, 

H. M. 

P. S. Ts the Poly gala praealta % Le Conte, the plant 
Jig, 1, in the draw ings ! and how is it different from P. 
oorymbosa % M\. cymosa Walterl ( inferni siw. 

summitate ramc ibus luteii, imbtrbibu$, Four ( 

endarium for April pleases me very much. 0! that I 
:ie dt* the plants I 



DR. MTTHLENBBRG To DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancasti r, Jum 29, I s 13. 

Dear Sir: Last evening 1 had the pleasun 
by the kindness of Mr, L. Chbybs, your interesting let- 
ter of the 11th and 12th of this month — with 14 numbers 
enclosed. I thank you sine r the e.mtinu, 

of your letters and specimens. Very soon after 

sent the letter, you will have received mine dated June 
1, in answer to yours of the 15th of May, and your 
numbers 806 — 923. Also my second letter of Jun 
m answer to numbers 924—981, and 1045—1067. The 
packet by Mr. Edw-ards, from 982 — 1044, has not y< t 
arrived; but as all the others came safe, I do not doubt 
it will arrive, and add much to my Herbarium. 



95 

Your Calendarium pleases me very much ; and I beg 
you will continue it, at least for one year. I have 
marked a few numbers, unknown to me — of which 1 
would be glad to know more. * * * 

Aletris—Jlore albo. What Willdenow in his Hort. Be- 
roL has figured as Wurmbea bullata, is the true Aletris 
farinosa, Linn. 

You have a number of Asclepiadae, unknown to me. 
I class them in three subdivisions : 

1. Nectariis corpusculo aequalibus — 8 species. 

2. Nectariis corpusculo longioribus — 4 do. 

3. Nectariis corpusculo brevioribus — 2 do. 

Some, corpusculo sessili ; some stipit at o ; some acornia 
(3), — the most corniculata. 

To keep your observations in order, and always at 
hand, I recommend to open a Book, in 8 vo. allowing 
for every dubious plant one page, — adding the day 
when you found it, and solum. In the beginning, anony- 
mus will be often necessary: in a short time you may 
add the proper name. 

In your Journal, refer to your Monographia, page — . 
If we live, we can add every year supplements. If we 
die, our observations will be of use to others. The Mon- 
ographia should range thus: — Caul. Ram. Folia. Flor. 
Cal. Cor. Stam. filam. anth. Pist. Caps. Sem. Rad. 

In looking over your specimens, when I added them 
to my Herbarium, I found hardly any change neces- 
sary, except — 

"No. 884." Has exactly the flowers of Rhus aroma- 
ticum. Are the leaves ternata 1 

"926." Sarracenia — is minor, Walter; but not vario- 
laris, Mx. [See Torrey & Gray ; who suppose them to 
be identical.] 

"939." Is a Dalibarda. Are the leaves always lobata, 
or also ternata 1 The D. fragarioides does not agree 
well with your specimen. [This was probably the D. 



96 

lobata, Baldw. in Ell. Sk. the Waldsteinia lobata^ of 
Torr. & Gray.]. 

"964." Primus. Is this a native! It is not Caroli- 
niana, Mx. rather Occident alis, Willd. figured in ( 
What is the color of the fruit! * * * 

The plant you mention u nearly allied to Brat 
unknown to me, — except it be Cakile maritima\ which 
grows all along the sea shore, from Carolina to New 
York. Your Vniola I wish to see. You will remembef 
that Linnaeus mixed two species under paniculata : the 
one growing near our inland rivers is now named lati- 
folia,Mx. and Persoon; the other, growing on tic 
shore, maritima, Mx. and Pcrsoon. r J Ilia last hi the 
largest we have; and very distinct from gracilis, Mx, — 
and also from Ipicota, L. which 1- / tea rfisticho- 
]>hyll<i, Mx. 

1 am \< iv happy to bear thai Mr. Elliott i- now 
tied, and intends t<> gire ins leisure houn to Botany. I 

have nnt yet received an answer t«» my la-t letter, dated 

May 17. Some of the seeds, sent to me by Mr. 

have vegetated. CUome }» ntaphylla, sown May 'JO. is 
now in flower. The resl are Hxbisci; and I hope to see 
them also flowering before frost 

My best respects to Mrs. Baldwin, and Miss GrRSBltS. 

Let me soon have your observations on the names I at- 
tempted to give to your plants. Yon see them alive, 
and can decide best. I remain with unchangeable 
esteem, Sir, your sincere friend, 

H. M. 
P. S. Whenever my catalogue is finished, I will send 
a copy immediately. It goes but very slowly. 



97 

DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, July 6, 1813. 

Dear Sir: I thank you sincerely for the continuation 
of your Calcndarium, and the specimens you sent in 
your letter, dated June 19. They arrived here last 
evening. Your correspondent at Washington merits 
my best thanks for his speed in transmitting whatever 
he receives from you. Part of the seeds I have put in 
the garden, already ; and I will not forget to transmit 
whatever I get to Mr. M'Mahon. He deserves encou- 
ragement ; and will be of great use to our country, in 
the Botanical way. 

By reading your Calendarium, I am often in spirit 
with you, and admire the riches of your present abode. 
You will oblige me much by adding the color of the 
corolla, in your different plants, — especially the new 
ones. Amongst your June plants, I have marked all 
your Grasses different from ours. * * * 

If you can get Seeds of any new plants, I would be 
extremely much obliged to you for them. Annuals will 
probably flower, if perennials die in our winter. * * 

" 864," comes nearest to Vaccinium Myrsinites. Lyon 
has it by that name. All the Vaccinia are difficult; and 
can hardly be distinguished, except by seeing the living 
plant, — and especially the fruit. * * * 

The weather has been so excessively hot, and the 
season so rainy, that I could make but few excursions, 
this year. We have just begun our wheat and rye har- 
vest. Our fields promise a very good crop. My little 
garden, in which I cultivate a number of N. American 
plants from other parts, gives me daily some entertain- 
ment: But, how little can a small garden contain ! 

From Mr. Elliott I have had no letter, lately. I 
begin to fear that my last letter to him, addressed to 
Charleston, has miscarried again, — as several others 

9 



98 

have, — for which I am very sorry. Will you mention 
this, when you write to him ! My letter was dated May 
17, 1813, and went the same time with one address 
you. You will have receivd, before this, my other 
letters, of June 22 and June 99. Both went by mail. 
What you sent by Mr. Edwards, has not yet arri\ 
By the way of New York, I am afraid I shall ttC 

nothing, — u the British have extended their blockading 

System to New York, and arc very strict. God send us 
<n a good and honorable pear 

Remember my respects to Mrs. Baldwin. May you 
continue in good health, and be always happy, 
I am, unchangeably, 

Sir, vuur most obedient and sincere friend, 

II. M. 



DR. MUHLE Of. 

Lancast. r, July 13, 1813. 

Dba&Sir: Just after I had gone through thi 
mens sent by Mr. BbwabDa — which arrived Baft last 
Friday — your letter of J une 98 was handed to mo; of 
which I hasten to acknowledge the receipt - Mj 

letters, of June 22 and 29, will have arrived probably 

about this time. Sincerely I thank you for the continu- 
ance of your correspondence ; and in particular of the 
ndarium and specimens. • • • 

should von find an opportunity to Bend me some 
seeds of Annuals, or others, not known here, I will be 
very much obliged to you. The living plant shows by 
far more than any dried specimen. 

I now come to the numbers of the letter, and of the 
Edwards packet: 

[*Dr. Baldwin's Ictlcr of June 26, consisted chiefly of a list of 
the plants contained in the package, with accompanying U 



99 

"809." Parmelia, I think is new; viridis would be 
a proper name, — or chlorophylla, — but the latter we have 
already. It comes near to Lichen centrifugus, which 
we have on rocks. Acharius has Lichen as an order, — 
divided into many Genera. Parmelia is when the thallus 
has leaves, and a Scutella with a mar go discolor: his 
Lecidea has a Scutella margine concolore. 

"880." Parmelia herbacea — a small variety. I think, 
with us, it is the largest Lichen we have.-^and spreads 
above afoot in circumference. 

"1086." Poly gala pubescens, mihi. Michaux makes it 
a co-species of P. Senega (rosea;) but they seem very 
distinct. [It is P. grandifiora, Walt. & Torr. & G-ray.] 
******* 

The packet sent by Mr. Edwards. 

"1001." Smilax hastata, Willd, Bona nox, Mx, The 
real Bona nox is different. 

"1008." Commelyna erecta, mihi. Caroliniana, Walter 
and Willd. angustifolia, Mx. 

"1043." Poly gala nana, (variety of lutea,) Mx. I 
take it for the true viridescens y L. [See Torr. &; Gray.] 
******* 

I have no answer yet from our good Mr. Elliott. 
How may he be 1 Remember my best respects to Mrs. 
Baldwin. She is right, in Bignonia capreolata, Mar- 
shall made the first mistake, in naming it crucigera. I 
am with great esteem, 

Sir, your affectionate and sincere friend, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, July 29, 1813. 
Dear Sir : Your valuable letters, of June 22 and 29 
and July 6, came to hand in regular succession, for 



100 

which I beg you to receive my best thanks, — while I 
again endeavor to make you some return. I am highly 
pleased to find that you attach some importance to my 
imperfect communications: and I anxiously hope that 
I may improre by the interesting instruction which you 
take so much pains to return to m< . — - that I may 
make you better an 

The excessive beat and drought of the season — with 
the rains that hare follow ed, — together with the incr 
in^ duties of my profession, have rendered my ( 
darinm Florae f for the present month, rery barren; and 
also pre m continuing m 

egularly, through the medium of our patriotic friend, 
Mr. Chbves, in Washington, — t<> vrhom I -lull return 
our joint thanks, for the promptness irifh which hi 

I will first attend to <( >m or que? 

Potygala praeaUa^ Le Conte, is fig. 1, in th< mgs; 

and 1 do Dot Bee that it difl m corj . kc. 

ISarracema warialaris, of Hx. I have in my Herbarium, 
h is, I think, the most beautiftd of all the family, t 
have Been. 

099. DaKbarda—] . of all [ 1. 

p04. Prunus—niWi 

Most of the doubtftd plants shall be foi I by 

land, in a packet I am now putting up to send by Lieut. 
Sevier, of the U. S. Marines, — win. will travel 
slowly with his company, but I li !v. • 

I go on with my Catendariwm, Mich as it i<; and shall 
continue it to the best of my ability, — net only here, 
but wherever I may go. 

July 1. Andropogon purpurascrns in flower. 

July 7. Malva rotund ifolia, Tcucrium CanadetU 

July 8. Epidtndrum MagnoHae t Muhl. in high perl 
tion. A friend of mine in this city [W. Gibso 
who is very fond of plants, at my request, early in the 



101 

spring, secured this plant with a bandage, round the 
body of the Melia Azedarach. It is now flowering, 'al- 
though planted in an inverted position — top down ! I 
mean, by inverted position, that the roots which, on the 
Magnolia, had taken a perpendicular direction down- 
ward, were, on the Melia, inverted, — and hence the 
flowers have shot in a direction downward. 

July 13. Marshalliaangustifolia, Clinopodiumincanum. 

July 25. Bartonia paniculata. 

July 29. Ambrosia artemisiaefolia, Apocynum cannabis 
num. 

July 31. I have written to Mr. Elliott, and informed 
him of your not hearing from him, — agreeably to your 
request. 

I also sent off a packet, yesterday, by Lieut. Sevier, 
of the U. S. Marines, to be delivered with his own hand 
to Mr. Musser, — commencing with No. 2023, and end- 
ing with 2108. His setting out several days earlier than 
I expected, prevented me from putting up as many spe- 
cimens as I intended, and forced me to be in too much 
of a hurry : But, as he will go by the mail coach, you 
may expect to receive them much earlier than I at first 
expected, when I began this letter. 

I have a chance, also, of putting you up another 
packet, to send by Mr. Austin, of the Marines, — should 
I find leisure to attend to it. He will leave St. Mary's 
in two days. 

Yours of the 13th inst. arrived last evening, and is 
now before me. How shall I thank you sufficiently for 
your constant and regular attention to me 1 The speci- 
men of Uniola which you have transmitted, is the one I 
have put down paniculata, L. and is found on the sea 
coast. But I have another, found in the same situations, 
which appears in some respects to differ from it, and 
grows much taller. I found it on Amelia, last year; 
and am waiting to obtain good specimens for you. 

9* 



102 

When the paniculata was in perfection, this new one 

just shooting H aides. The on< I 

you, enclosed, is very different, — and is found along 

with <rraeilis, on fresfa ua* K>, to be 

yet another, — which, hoi 

of gracilis. I will xiid all. 

"Nos. 1010 -'1 ." mens i t ' <, . L 

Rkyncko$ia % T. fc GL] ought surely to be distinct 
cies. I4 1019 M I would call rotundij .— r ; rhapt 
rimplicifolia would be s till better: "1"' 

and "1021 " ' • '7'/, Of ft . and 

attains to the height ol *.. Bui I rdon 

for my presumption, and leai r your .ilv and 

perience to decide. [1 u redu< n to 

vars. oi RA]f 

With sentinK n arm i steem Bind L ri . 

your abundant 

lid, 

w. 

l\ s. Mrs. B. s mdsher hearty res] i. We 

expect to nait Cumberland, Bhortly, — win shall 

sec Miss Grb] etc. Her brother, Nathan: 
is hero. \\ our little daughter, ILmlla, to the 

Island for her health, — as ahe baa been very ill 
fever. I shall also visit Amelia, if possible ; and in the 
fall, St. Augustine, l ho] 



TO THE HON. LANGDON CHBVES, WASHIN- TY. 

Dear Sir: Once more I take the liberty to avail 
self of your generosity. Permit me to tender you the 

thanks of Dr. MUHLENBERG, along w ith my own, for the 
promptitude with which you have served US, in ti 



103 

mitting a number of specimens ; — some of which turn 
out to be new, — and others, not heretofore described 
with sufficient accuracy. 

I have the honor to be sir, most sincerely your friend 
and servant, W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St Mary's, August 7, 1813. 

Dear Sir: I hasten to write you once more before 
the adjournment of Congress, and to inform you that 
on Monday last I put you up some additional speci- 
mens, to be sent on after Lieut. Sevier by the hand of 
Serg't Austin, — who was to have followed on that day, 
and overtake him in Savannah, or Charleston. But I 
am sorry to inform you that Austin has not yet left 
Point Peter; and I have been unable to ascertain 
whether he can still proceed, so as to overtake Sevier, 
or not. Should I learn in time that Sevier will wait 
for him, I may yet add the remainder of my doubtful 
specimens, — a considerable number of which I have 
still by me. 

1 am getting my Herbarium arranged as fast as possi- 
ble ; but a season of the year has now arrived in which my 
attention must necessarily be devoted to the sick. My 
little daughter remains very unwell; and some cases of 
bilious fever, of a high grade, have just appeared. 

Beside all this, we have some reason to apprehend 
an attack from the enemy, who are hovering on our 
coast. The troops (1,000 in number, under the com- 
mand of Brig. Gen. Thomas Pinkney,) are nearly all 
leaving us, for some other post, further North ; and ex- 
pectations are entertained that the flotilla, to which I 
am attached, may likewise be shortly removed to Sa- 
vannah, or Charleston. The removal of the army, in 



104 

particular, at a period when commotions have again 
broke out in East Florida, — and a portion of the Cr 
Indians (through the influence of the British,) have be- 
come hostile, — has tilled us all with seriom hi n- 
sion.s. 

I beg you will correct a ridiculous mistake in the 
number* of my last Letter, in which 1 have mads ■ most 
preposterous transition from 1000 Bl tliruugh haste 

and inadvertence. The ouml I in the Last 

packet were from L100 — 1178. [now send you 117»— 

1191. I remain, my dear sir, 

Host respectfully, 
Your devoted friend, 

W. B. 



DR. KUHL1 BALDWIN. 

/>//, . I ■ Mil, 1813. 

Da lb Bu : 1 thank you sincerely 
the 20th and 31st of July, which arrived here, by the 
kindness of Mr. Chevi i days ago. Be deserves 

our best thanks for his assistance in forwarding your 
packets with speed. We will have now to depend mora 
on the mail, or travelling friends, — as all intercourse by 

sea is -tupped. No other packel — as Mr. Mi 

now with all his family at Lancaster: Boi in a 

week's time he returns to the city, and will lock t'«»r the 

gentleman you mention. 
The heal b in with us, also, almost intolerable; 

and every excursion was forbidden to m i my 

garden, — where I had the pleasure to see several oi Mr. 
Oemler's plants: among them, ( pentapkyUa t Qm- 

linsoga parvi flora, and Hibiscus divtrsifolius, have flow- 
ered, — and others promise to flower before frost. Pray, 
are the mentioned plants native or imported! 



105 

I thank you for the observations on former numbers. 
Of Prunus, 964, I wish to know more. It eannot be 
Caroliniana, foliis sempervirentibus oblongo-lanceolatis 
serratis; but either occidentalism or sphaerocarpa, Swartz 
(non Mx.). How may the drupa bel Occidentalis has 
racemos later ales; splxaerocarpa, racemos axillares ; both v 
folia per ennantia, eglandulosa, inlegerrima. 

Your Calendarium for July has several plants new to 

\y\ c» >jc 5{{ ;$; sfi ijc ■♦ jje 

Whenever you mention the sea shore, or an island, I 
lament that I never had the opportunity to see the 
many Fuel and Confervae which might be seen and 
gathered in such a situation. Try to persuade your 
friends to do it. The Confervae, when thrown into wa- 
ter, and gathered on paper, surpass any drawings: but 
it should be done with a nice, lady's hand. In England, 
it is now done especially by the ladies. 

The specimens enclosed in the letter were very wel- 
come — but naturally in part imperfect, where the genus 
contains many species. The Panicums will therefore 
remain partly dubious, until we have more specimens. 
I will do what lies in my power. 

"1097." Uniola (only less than our common) lati- 
folia, Mx. 

"1101." (Your 2001) Paspalum virgatum, Walter, vix 
Linn. 

"1114." — Panicum microcarpon, mihi; — perhaps niti- 
dum, Mx. which I do not know. * * * 

You see I have changed your numbers from "2000 — 
2022." Even 1122 is a great number for such a short 
period. 

My Catalogue is now printed, except the preface. 
When complete, I will look for an opportunity to send 
you and Mr, Elliott a copy. A number of your plants 
came too late for an insertion ; and you will have to 
assist me infilling up vacant places, for the time of 



106 

flowering, and the color of the corolla. A second edi- 
tion will have many emendation>. 

Your number 10*27 is very different from Rumex 
AcetoseUa ; and I wish that you would inform HM 
whether it h<is Jlons dioieot , and r«<L nmnem. 

To-day, I had the pleasure to get | illy ac- 

quainted with Dr. Cleaver, on his return from Har- 
mony, beyond the Ohio, to Philadelphia. He remem- 
bers you with great esteem, and is a warm friend of 
Botany, — and promises to forward to me whatever he 
finds curious and dubious In health he LS rather w 
ing. I enclose the spike of a southern grass, Vfhl 
had several years in my garden. It is laid to grow in 

Carolina, and is received in the system by the name of 
Futuca uniohidest Willd. because it has the I 
Uniola. Did you find the same, in your ex< 

Remember my I ipecta to Mrs, Baldwin and 

Bliss Gbbbnx. i bave quite lately received a friendly 
letter from Mr. Elliott, and shall answer it in a short 
time. With unchangeable sentiments of esteem 

gratitude, 1 remain, dear sir t vmir si friend, 

II. M. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Jdfftrti tfftr. September ft, 1^1.3. 
Dear Sir: Your packet, by Lieut Sevier, 
handed to mc a few days ago, — and directly after, 
your letter arrived with numbers 1179 — 1191; for both, 
receive my best thanks. About this time my answer to 
your last letter will have come to your hands. It was 
dated August 24. You will find that I altered the num- 
bers 11 instead of 20 — and 12 instead of 21. Your 
numbers from 1179 to 1191 will have (b) to distinguish 
them from the same numbers in the former collections. 



107 

Such little mistakes often happen, when we are in a 
hurry. I will now give you my opinion on your num- 
bers, — as far as I can judge from the specimens. 

"1124." Hypericum aureum, Bartram, frondosum, Mx. 

"1129." Kalmia ciliata, Bartr. hirsuta, Mx. 

"1137." Vitis rotundifolia, Mx. verrucosa, mihi. 

"1168." Scleria oligantha, Mx. not paucijl or a, Willd. 

"1173." Asclepias N. S. (connivens, mihi.) 

"1182." Anona grandiflora, Bartr. obovata, Willd. 
******* 

Often I might have added the Qu. am I right! I 
add it now ; and beg you will inform me of your doubts, 
and my mistakes. You have the living plants; I, only 
dried, and sometimes imperfect, specimens. To such 
as I wish to see again, N. B. is added, — or your obser- 
vations are wanted. 

In my last letter I mentioned my great desire for wa- 
ter plants, — Fucus and Conferva, — and for some Filices, 
mentioned in Michaux, and not to be found here, viz: 
Vittaria angustifrons, Blechnum serrulatum, Adiantum 
nigrum, Acrostichum aureum, and Psilotum Floridanum. 
Probably you will discover some new ones. 

Have you made any observations for the elucidation 
of Bartram's Travels 7 and in explanation of the 
figures not yet explained — Nos. 16, 28 and 301 

I beg you may give me the pleasure of seeing your 
Calendarittm continued as long as possible: at the end 
of the season^ we may compare notes. 

Our mutual friend, Dr. Isaac Hiester, continues to 
send me the plants of Reading. Hitherto, of 279 speci- 
mens, only one was new to me,- ^Polygonum cilinode, 
Mx. Perhaps we will have better luck in future. 

My best respects to Mrs. Baldwin. Wishing you 
health and prosperity, I remain with great esteem and 
affection, sir, your most obedient and sincere friend, 

H. M. 



108 

P. S. What I chiefly wish to see explained, in Bar- 
tram's Travels, is 
Asclepias fragrans, p. 19. Rajania, 13G. 

Is it pedicrllatn, Walter! Cucurbita peregrina, 187* 
Malva coerulra, 35, 827. Anonymoi voluh'ui 

Mimosa procumbent^ 24. Ixia cnclcstina. L55. 

Pancratium Jluitans,\\~t. i uum; White Lily, BO. 

Physic nut or Indian ()livc % \. Zamia jnnni '.■. I 
Tallow nut , Wild time,*.) A, ILL Hydrastis^ 964. 
Hibiscus, 104, 105. ArbortSd nt aromat ic Vmc436. 



DC. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

N/. Mary's, S 16,1811. 

Dear Sir: Your valuable letter of the 24th ultimo, 

found rue in mourning for tl my dear little 

Makia, — who died on the 18th with // 
ma, alter g pparenl Buffer 

This deaf little object of my i ction, who 

now lefl forever this troubled scene, had completed her 
fifth year; and was, even at this infantile age, an 
interesting companion to me. Alter thr mths 

tuition, since our arrival here, Bhe had learned ' 
not having known the alphabet before; and was more 
fond of her book than of play. Many a li has 

collected flowers to Bend to i 1 i .. — and as 

often requested me to inform him thai she had found 
them. Although I bow to this afflicting dis] on of 

the Great Disposer of e and admit that it may i 

be in mercy, — I have found it the most severe: and the 
loss of a father, a brother, and a sister, whom I dearly 
loved, was not a loss like this! She was daily improv- 
ing in every thing calculated to please, and to inspire 
the most flattering hopes of the fondest parents ; and my 
attachment to her was increasing in proportion. 



109 

"I loved her much; but now I love her more: 

" Thus blessings brighten as they take their flight." 

I once expected to have gone before her. To have 
left this mortal scene would then have been more pain- 
ful: now, to anticipate the period when I shall follow 
after, is mixed with something joyful. — You, my dear 
friend, will please to excuse this short, melancholy di- 
gression, from the subject of our correspondence ; — 
You, — whose holy office it is to dispense the benign 
doctrines of the Saviour of men, who came to heal the 
broken-hearted, — will not, I know r , be offended at such 
reflections, 

September 24. 

And must my letter totally consist of a detail of sor- 
rows and misfortunes'? Immediately after writing the 
above, I was sent for to visit a patient in great affliction, 
twenty miles distant, at the south end of Amelia Island. 
I went prepared to collect all I could, in this flowery de- 
partment; but was disappointed from the state of the 
weather, — which, early the next morning (16th) after 
my arrival on the Island, exhibited tokens of a storm. 
During the fore part of the day, the wind was variable, 
with frequent showers of rain, and some thunder. In 
the afternoon, it gradually increased to a gale, with the 
wind about North-east, accompanied with much rain. I 
was in a house, — considered the strongest on the Island, 
inhabited by a Capt. H. with a large family, — situated 
on the Sound, and in sight of the Bay of St. John's. At 
10 P. AL the gale had increased so much that our safety 
became precarious, — as the house was cracking to its 
foundation, and most of the negro dwellings, corn and 
cotton houses, were already blown away. In this situ- 
ation, we abandoned the house, and retreated (men, 
women and children,) with great difficulty to a kitchen, 
which, being low, was considered the only place of 

10 



110 

safety. Shortly after the house was evacuated, one of 
the chimneys fell, and most of the wind nd all of 

the outside doors, were blown away. A little after mid- 
night, the wind abated; but it was only to excite more 
fearful apprehensions of what was predicted to follow, — 
and which in a little time took place. The wind sud- 
denly shitted to the S. \\\ and blew (if possible) with 

redoubled fury. Bach was die transcendent force of 
the wind, — accompanied with torrents of rain, — that, in 

ling to prop up the kitchen, (which we had litth 
pectation o( saving,) I was blown off, — or, at least >ut- 
feredmyseli to be carried before the wind, until I got 
hold of some piles of wood that ha. l been driven into 
the ground for a domestic purpose. Here, it was with 

the utmost difficulty that I COUld maintain my bold, and 

prevent my face from being lacerated with the sand 
and shell-, that were driven by the wind in horrible i 
fusion. The rain, all the time, came down in such 
rents, and N\as driven in such a manner, as to resemble 
the a it was imp and 

l remained in this situation for about an hour, — when, 
the wind abating a little, 1 scrambled back to the kitchen 
(having been almost given up for lost); which, though 

much wrecked, still remained on it- foundation. A 

3 o'clock, the wind gradually abated. But what a 

dreary scene of desolation did the light of d 
Almost every neighboring house was torn down, 
miserably wrecked. Whole families had spent this 
dreadful night Unsheltered from the raging storm. Not 
a flower was to be Been I Not an ornamental tree hit 
standing! The Cotton and Rice all destroyed I 

In returning, I had to pass through alow, rich Ham- 
mock, consisting principally of Live Oak, but mixed With 
other Oaks, and the great Magnolia grand) [flora. Thou- 
sands of these were all prostrate, blocking up the way : 
and it was with the greatest difficulty and hazard I could 



Ill 

penetrate at all, — being frequently under the necessity 
of dismounting from my horse, to cut loose from Grape 
vines, Green briars, &c. Nearly the whole forest was 
also under water ; and in some places up to the saddle, 
so as almost to swim the horse. Passing out of this into 
Pine Barren (consisting exclusively of Pinus palustrisj, 
every tree, of any importance, was prostrate ! 

I had next to learn, that in Fernandina (the Capital,) 
28 houses were blown down, and every vessel in the 
harbor ( — one brig excepted — that had dragged on 
shore with 5 anchors, and when the wind shifted, drag- 
ged back again,) on dry land ! It is, however, wonder- 
ful to relate that no lives were lost. I had yet to learn 
the fate of St. Mary's, — where all my hopes and fears 
were centered. Here, on the morning of the 18th, I wit- 
nessed a similar scene of destruction ; — and what was 
infinitely more melancholy, Gun vessel, No. 164, had 
sunk, and 20 of her crew perished, — while the Revenue 
Cutter shared the same fate, with the loss of 2 men. — 
The harbour was clear, while the city and adjacent 
shores were rilled with shipping. I had the satisfaction, 
however, to find that my little family were safe ; they 
having taken shelter at a neighbor's house, in my ab- 
sence. But I am truly sorry to inform you, that my 
collection of specimens has suffered much, and many 
of them are entirely destroyed; — among which, are 
some of the most rare from the Creek country, that 
cannot readily be replaced. Had I been at home, they 
could have been saved, with care. The oldest inhabi- 
tants, here, observe, that this gale has not been 
paralleled since their memory, — even in this land of 
hurricanes. But it appears not to have been extensive. 
I learn that in St. Augustine, but little of it was felt; 
and that in the opposite direction, its ravages did not 
extend beyond Darien, on the Alatamaha. 

Thus circumstanced, my dear sir,— and having also 



112 

many sick and wounded to attend, — I feel in a poor 
condition for writing any thing that will be interesting 
to you, at this time. I send you, however, a small 
cimen of the Uniola, mentioned in my letter of the 39th 
July. Is it the same with (Festura unioioidesj the one 
you sent enclosed 1 i ham not been able t<> procure 
any fresh specimens; ind I consider the one l send you 
as rather too young. 

I am very glad to h<'ar that your Catalogue is pub- 
lished, at last ; and rather than tail to receive it in time, 
I must beg that you will send it by the mail, — (he post- 
age of which I will mosl cheerfully pay. Or, sh 
you not send it on immediately in this way , it ma] 
sent through the hands of Mr. < 'in (ter the meeting 

of Cong' But I should be glad t tore. 

I received a letter from Mr. Chbvbs, dated the i 
August, — wherein he expressed the pleasure him 

to aid us in our con dence. It gives me pleasure 

to hoar from Dr. I Ilbaybe, and to b d by 

him. The recollection i [ those bappy days, wi 
tended medical lectures with him, and others, i- like a 
pleasing dream. I wish it were in my power to realise 
such days again. 

Mr. Oemler's plants, which yon have mention* 
me as nourishing in your garden, are, I beliere, all 
exotics. Cleome pcntaphylla> howerer, might be taken 
for a native,— as it is found growing spontaneously 
about the suburbs of Savannah, and ifl likewise in this 
place. The Canna gUmea ifl called, in Florida, "Wild 
Sago." The root of this plant has b< bstitutedfor 

"Arrow root" ( Maranta arundinacea,) — and I am told 
cannot be distinguished from it. The latter ia n 
and manufactured, here. 

I have not seen Miss Greene for some time, 
house she resides in, though covered with copper, has 
been unroofed in the gale ! Mrs. B. is well, and is now 



113 

on a visit to Fernandina. It will be some time before 
many flowers appear in the vicinity of this place, — such 
have been the destructive effects of the gale. 

As soon as an opportunity offers, I will send you spe- 
cimens of the Epidendrum Magnoliae. The Rumex 
(1027) appears to be dioicous. I am not certain about 
the root; but will attend to it further. I considered it 
very different from R. Acetosella. I found, yesterday, 
on Amelia, Crinum? spatha diphylla, triflora. 

I remain most affectionately yours, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, November 18, 1813. 
My Dear Sir: Your letter of the 15th and 24th Sep- 
tember, last, arrived here in the middle of October, — 
with the distressing account of the hurricane, and the 
severe loss of your good and amiable Maria. I feel 
sincerely for you ; but we must be satisfied with the 
ways of Providence. "Maria has chosen that good 
part, which shall not be taken away from her." Since 
that time, I have been with you often, in spirit, intend- 
ing to write, — but have been hindered from time to 
time ; and have been waiting to hear whether you had 
received my Catalogue, — which I had sent to you be- 
fore the arrival of your letter, viz : September 29, by 
mail. I wish it may not have miscarried. You will 
find that a number of your plants came too late for in- 
sertion. Some of them were entirely strangers to me. 
Will you give me your additions and corrections, — and 
try to get me such as are marked (f) — or entirely want- 
ing! Do not forget to mention if the plants are not 
natives, — but only naturalized, or garden plants. You 
mentioned several in your Calendarium^ of which 1 

10* 



114 

would be very glad to have a description, or a speci- 
men, — and, if not too much trouble, seeds. I very 
often look over your Calendar iiun, and Irish exceed- 
ingly to see it continued, — that wo may compare the 
time of flowering in the different States. A new cor- 
respondent, at Boston, Dr. Jacob Bigelow, has prom- 
ised to do the same, at that place. 

From our mutual excellent friend, Elliott, I had a 
letter, lately. He had received my Catalogue, which 
went some time after yours, — and promises additions. 
In Fucus and Conferva, hardly anything lias been d< 
and I wish assistance from every quarter. 

The time draws near in which Congress meets. If 
Mr. Ciieves is a member, ho may l>«- persuaded to as- 
sist US with his former goodness. It i^ a pity that all the 
specimens must be rather -mall. Pimy Lei me know if 
you have received the Catalog**, Should it have mis- 
carried, I will -end again. Sim-.- my last, i have been 
favored with a valuable acquisition to my Herbarium, 
by Mr. Z. Collins, — who hafl been at the sea-shore. 
Also by Mr. Whitlow, with a number i I Q 
plants. I cannot expect any thing from Europe, until 
these troublesome times are over. [fourAmeri 
Botanists would join a little closer, wo would do b< 

Mr. Correa, an excellent Botanist, had i^onc to Bos- 
ton with the determination to return to Europe. He lias 
changed his mind, and will remain in America for some 
time longer; probably he will visit the Southern States. 

Dr. Barton, you know, is now in the place of Khe 
ccllent deceased Benjamin Rush. Whether his new- 
situation will hurt his Botanical pursuits, time wills] 
Mr. Collins is an excellent observer, and indef; 
able. Of Messrs. M'Mahon, and Lyon, I have not 
heard, lately. 

Your Salix, 1103, seems new, — but cannot be distin- 



115 

guished for want of adult leaves. I would thank you 
very much, if you could enclose of every southern 
Salix a grown leaf, numbered. This can easily be done 
in a letter. Of No. 1188, Ephedra ? I wish to see the 
female plant, or seed. I can do pretty well by exam- 
ining the seed with Gaertner, de fructibus, — especially 
when the flowers are minute. * * * 

You have a number of Centaurcas, in your Calenda- 
rium, which are strangers to me. I know but three, — 
Jacea, Calcitrapa, and benedicta — perhaps a native. Your 
former native Mary gold, in Charleston, also remains a 
dubium. Have you found it any where in your excur- 
sions] 

I do not remember whether you have Walter' s Flora 
Caroliniana. It is an excellent book, and would deserve 
a new editor. You, or Mr. Elliott, would make a 
valuable present to the public, by giving a new edition, 
with supplements and emendations. 

As soon as I know for certain that you have received 
my Catalogue, I will send you what I have added since ; 
and the sooner you send me your additions, the greater 
my obligation will be to you. 

Remember my best respects to Mrs. Baldwin, and 
believe me to be unchangeably, 

Sir, your most obedient servant, and sincere friend, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, December 0, 1813. 
My Dear Sir: Your letter, dated the 18th of Novem- 
ber, came by the last mail; but it was not in my power 
to return an immediate answer. On the back of my 
letter of the 15th and 24th, I acknowledged yours of the 
6th of September. Your Catalogue arrived on the lGth of 



116 

October. I ask your pardon, seri< >u>l y, for not having ac- 
knowledged earlier the receipt of so valuable a present. 
From day to day I put off writing, with the expectation 
of having something worthy of your acceptance, to 
communicate. But the Oak having deranged my col- 
lection, and produced universal disorder, — together with 
an increase oftroubli professional duties, and a 

variety of Other objects engaging my attention, — all 

conspired to prevent me from attending to my favorite 

pursuit. 1 hope, however, BOOU to renew my attention 

to it with Increased ardor. 
The Arum, or Gslts, with a white spatha, which you 

mention, is found native in the neighborhood of Savan- 
nah. 1 met with it in the spring of 1813. Specimen 
it were lost in the month of the Delaware. I was in- 
formed that Bbickxll called it CsBs.* 

• •••••• 

I go on with my Ch I -.which will be 

very barren the remainder ofthe season. 

AugUSi -1. Sid,i rfioi/ihifn/i',1. 

44 ir>. Rhus oopaUinum, 

44 l!). An dr opo g on nutem, P . L. 

Septan. f). Stat ice Limonium. 
44 10. Cassia chamaerrista. 
4 * 24. Eupatnrium f<> ( niei/Iam/m. 

October 4. Flum tics and Whortleberries, in Bower: 

most probably in consequence of the 

dale. 

8. Morus jxipyrihra, L. [Hroussonet ia] Bgakl 

In flower. New / very where ap- 

pearing, since the Gale. 
44 21. Apple and Peach trees in flower. 
Novem. 1. Second crop Mulberries ripe, on Amelia. 

[*It is, douhtkss, the plant called Culadium glaucum, by Elliott. 
Calla sagitttfuda. Mi.] 



117 

" 8. Salvia lyrata, and Cercis Canadensis, in 

flower. 
" 19. Hard frost; and many vegetables destroy- 
ed by it. 
" 30. Mercury at 34°. Hard frost. 

The weather has been very moderate so far, this, 
month. The mercury has been as high as 74°. My 
Calendar ium shall be continued. 

I hope your new correspondent, Dr. Bigelow, of 
Boston, will keep, along with his Calendarium, a register 
of the weather, — which will render it more important. 

Mr. Cheves will no doubt aid us in our correspon- 
dence, as formerly. I shall very soon avail myself of 
his kindness, and transmit to you my doubtful plants. 

The native Mary gold, of Charleston, I have not found, 
in my excursions. The keeper of the Botanical Garden 
thought it belonged to that genus ; but he was probably 
mistaken. 

I have not the Flora, of Walter; for which I am very 
sorry. I saw a copy, in Savannah, that had belonged 
to the late Dr. Brickell, — but could not obtain it. It 
well deserves a new edition. 

The additions to your Catalogue, I shall look out for 
with much pleasure ; and as soon as possible, I will send 
you all I can. 

I am sorry to learn that the packet, mentioned in my 
letter of the 7th of August, which I sent on after Lieut. 
Sevier, by Serg't Austin, has never reached you. The 
numbers were from 1109 to 1178, inclusive; and con- 
tained many of my most important specimens. Among 
these was a Gratiola prostrata, — and an Orchis, unknown 
to Mr. Elliott, — with several other doubtful plants. 

Miss Greene, and Miss Paine (her niece,) are present, 
and send their best respects to you. The latter is now 
studying Botany with great diligence, and will shortly 
be able to do something clever. Mrs. B. also wishes to 



118 

be remembered to you. Accept my best wishes, and 
thanks for your attention to me :-^I am most sincerely 
your friend, W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Loncasti r, Dea 17. L€ 

My Dear Sir: I have the pleasure to inform yon, that 

a packet you were pleased to Bend to me, August £, by 

Messrs. Bevosb, and Dutal, has come, after a l«.nu r 

fely to my hands. I thank you sincerely for 

yourcontinued friendship. In aletter,dated nber 

18* I have informed you that I sent you a copy of my 

CataioguS) September 29, by the mail. No answer has 
hitherto come, and l am very anxious to hear from j 
— especially since the former friend i^ at th< 
vernment, and perhaps will continue to do what he did 
inthelasl ii — aUjroBoa P Four Gbfefkfa- 

rium continued, would be a g n to db 

Pray let me have it, — at l< LSOn. Amongst 

the last plants, several are new to adasth< b] 

mens are uniques^ 1 entreat you to send more, when- 
ever I add \. B. — As I bave S I Ft&tft, much 

depends on the sight of ripe seed, to find the genus: 

and if you would be pleased to add your description, 
and the sign of duration, my obligations to you will be 

enhanced. In the same manner, I entreat your addi- 
tions, and emendations, to my Catalogue, — mentioning 
ih-' North American plants missing, and filling np the 

many blanks, in the color of the corolla, duration, and 
time pf flowering. Should the Catalogue have miscar- 
ried, I will send again. * * * * 

How have you and your family been, since your last 
mournful letter of September 24 ! May you all be pre- 
served ; — especially in these turbulent times, when our 



119 

enemy threatens to visit (not in mercy, indeed,) the 
southern States. 

It is only to-day that I hear of an excellent Mycolo- 
gist, in North Carolina, who is a teacher among the 
Moravians, at Salem, — and has written upon Fungi, in 
Germany. His address is Rev. L. David de Schwei- 
nitz, at Salem, North Carolina. Pray mention it to our 
mutual friend, Mr. Elliott, who is nearer than we, and 
would find great assistance in making a complete Cata- 
hgus of Carolina Fungi. It is a very wide field. 

Wishing you, with all my heart, health and pros- 
perity, — and anxious to hear from you soon and often, — 
I remain with unchangeable esteem, 
Sir, your sincere friend and servant, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, December 25, 1813. 

Dear Sir: I wish you a happy Christmas! While 
most of my neighbors, of all colors, and different na- 
tions, are preparing to celebrate the day, — I sit down to 
put you up a few more specimens, to send via Washing- 
ton, through Mr. Cheves, who I hope is there. It is a 
wet and stormy day, — or I should probably have passed 
it with a friend in the country. — I have just been spend- 
ing a few days on Cumberland Island: But met with 
nothing of importance, — as the weather permitted me 
to travel but little ; and there is not much now to be 
found, except a few Mosses and Lichens, — and these, 
many of them, not in season. Mrs. Miller (mother of 
Miss Greene) gave me a few seeds of a shrub, found 
on St. John's, which you will find enclosed. 

I begin with 1209, which I believe is my next highest 
number. I feel ashamed of the blunders I have made 



120 

in my numbers; but I hope to go straight, hereafter. 
Some further particulars respecting the enclosed spe- 
cimens shall be added, on a future occasion. With 
unabated esteem, I remain, my dear sir, 

Your affectionate friend, \V. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St Mary's, January 7, 1813. 

Dear Sir: By the last mail, I had the pleasure to 
ceive your letter of the 17th lilt, and before this time I 

hope you have received mine of the 9th. I wrote slso 
on the 25th and sent y<m a few specimens, through lift 
Chbvrs. I now give you the remainder of my O 

darium, — whieh is very shoit. 

December 13. Found the E \j : 

species i f Hickory I J \e.) 
44 31. As!> r lm vu in flower. 

January 7, 1814. (This day) Erysimum pinnatum, 
Walter, in flower. 
Enclosed yon will find a specimen of the Ep i den dm m 

Magnolia?, taken this day from the Mdia Azedarocfc, where 
it had been transplanted last spring. It is remarkable, 
that it has continued to flower all the winter, <>n the 
Mclia, — while in the woods, do flowers B found. 

• •••••• 

The winter, even here, is too cold for me: But we 
may now anticipate the speedy arrival of the spring 
season, and its charming warmth. It is now our time 
for planting Northern garden seeds, kc. We have al- 
ready planted Irish potatoes, peas, &c. Some of our 
neighbors have peas lit for the table. — While I fondly 
reciprocate your kind wishes for me and mine, 

I remain ever yours, W. B. 



121 

TO THE HON. LANGDON CHEVES, WASHINGTON CITY. 

Dear Sir: Again I trouble you in the old way. If it 
be in the least inconvenient, I beg you will inform me, 
and I will desist : But it is my only mode of transmit- 
ting specimens, these war times. 

I am, my dear sir, yours, &c. 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, January 14, 1814. 

Dear Sir : I put you up a few more plants, — none of 
which, I fear, will be interesting. * * * 

I ought to have mentioned, in my last letter, that on 
J".2d of December, the following plants were flower- 
ing, on Cumberland Island, viz: Sonchus oleraceus, 
Houstonia serpylHfolia, Mitchella repens, Alsine media, 
and Lamium amplcxicaule. 

I will take the liberty of suggesting a few little im- 
provements in your Catalogue, — should you publish 
another edition, which I hope you will be able to do 
shortly, with many additions. 

1. Would it not be well, where old Generic names are 
changed, to retain them all — at least in the index 1 — as, 
without a previous knowledge of such change, we are 
embarrassed in looking for some plants: asforexample, 
Cynosurus fEIeusine,J Sideroxylon (Bumelia,) &c, 
which are not to be found in the catalogue, nor index. 

2. I should be glad to see the names of the different 

. or nomenclaturists, affixed to each species, 
rell as all the different names by which the same 
genus, or species, has been called : which appears not 
to be uniformly the case, in the catalogue. 

3. Perhaps some plants are marked as indigenous, 

11 



122 

which are exotic,— as several species of Cucurbita, &c. 
It has just been snowing a little ; but was soon fol- 
lowed by rain : —Mercury, in Fahrenheit, 49°. 

The weather has been, for some time, cold, rainy, and 
very unpleasant to me. In the spring, I hope to visit 
Occonee, Ocmulgee, and Flint rivers, if the times will 
admit. With much esteem I remain, my dear sir, 

Yours, &c. 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBEIU; TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, January 14, 1814. 

My Dear Sir: Two of your b now before 

me, — one. dated December !>, with the continuation of 
your Cak ndarium^ the other, dated December 25, bj the 
assistance of Mr. Chevm, with 12 specimens j— for both, 
receive my beat acknowledgments. My laal letter, with 
my observations on yourNoa. 1200 — 1278, — which went 
from here December 18) ymi probably have received 
long before this. In your Caiendarium^ several plants 
struck me; of which I much wish to hear and m 
• #••••• 

Your specimens, in the second letter, were 1 
pleasing, — though some had Buffered a little. A little 
paste-board would preserve them better; but that would 
make the number less. how we miss our former 
peaceable times! I will give you my opinion on each 
number. • a • • The seeds enclosed, 
were of Ptelea trifol'ata. They can be used instead of 
hops. Your number 1133 was an imperfect specimen 
of the same. It stands our climate very well; and I 
have a living plant from Tennessee seed. Nature seems 
now sleeping, with us. But the Cryptogamia give suf- 
ficient employment to a Botanist; and a number of 



123 

water plants would reward him for his exertions. The 
Confervae, and small Fuci, can be transported best with- 
out harm, — as they revive, when put in water. I 
should suppose the shores of Cumberland, and other 
Islands, would give a very plentiful harvest. Have you 
made a list of your Georgia and Florida Filices? 

Since my last, I had a very pleasing visit from Mr. 
Charles Whitlow, of New York, — who intends to go 
to England, and return again immediately. He brought 
with him about 420 plants, chiefly gathered in Genessee. 
Amongst them, Vinca minor, native [1], several Ran- 
unculi, Potent Mae, Pruni, Melilotus vulgaris, native [!],* 
Pulmonaria Sibirica, — in all about a dozen. By him I 
have begun a correspondence with Dr. Romayne Beck, 
at Albany, — who, in company with others, is indefatiga- 
ble in exploring the Flora near the lakes. By the old 
settlements of the French, many European plants are 
entirely naturalized. 

From our mutual friend, Mr. Elliott, I have not 
heard, lately. His last letter was dated October 30. My 
last, November 8, and December 6. Probably he is too 
much engaged in other business. 

My health has been rather precarious, — being apt of 
getting cold : However, I am clear of rheumatism. 

Remember my best respects to Mrs. Baldwin, — and 
the ladies who practice Botany. I remain with un- 
changeable affection, 

Sir, your most obedient and sincere friend, 

H. M. 

[•Mr. Whitlow was probably poor authority, on the subject of 
"native," or indigenous plants. Those here mentioned, as native, 
are not believed to be such, by the more respectable American 
Botanists.] 



124 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, January 22, 1814. 
Dear Sir : I again put you up a few specimens. # * 
1 see no Andromeda formoHssima in your catalogue.* Is 
Convolvulus obtusilobus, in your catalogue, the same as 
Ipomoea obtusiloba, No. 859? Tho flowers of this plant 
are not white, but a beautiful yellow. Is Iponma Qua- 
moclit a native of any part of America? 1277 Convol- 
vulus trichosanthes. The flowers of this arc ulii; 
have another, as small, or smaller, — le 
flowers white. This is the smallest of all, and rerj dif- 
ferent from C. sagittifolius, Mx. which has flowers pur- 
ple. You have no tagittifMus in your catali 
hope to have an opportunity to Bend you all these io 
good order, should I live until they B 

tion. The mail has arrived, but brought do letter I 
you. I therefore conclude! for the present, and am with 
unabated esteem, ever yours, W. B. 



TO THE HON. LaNODOM CHIVES. 

St. Mary's, January 22, 181 1. 
Dear Sir: As I hope I am not intruding too much on 
your goodness, I continue to trouble you with my 
packets. Yours kc. W. B. 



HON. L. CHEVES TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Washington, February 3, 1814. 
Dear Sir: I have received yours of the 22d ult. and 
several preceding packets, — all of which I have for- 

[*The A. formosissima, Bartram, is acuminata, of Muhl. cata- 
logue, — reticulata, Walter, — and Leucothoe acuminato, DC. Prodr.] 



125 

warded with great pleasure. I am happy to be an use 
ful, though humble agent, in assisting you in your 
laudable exertions in the cause of Science. I am, dear 
sir, with great respect and esteem, your obedient 

LANGDON CHEVES. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, February 12, 1814. 

Dear Sir: I will now attend, as far as I am able, to 
your letter of the 14th ult. and first of the plants in my 
Calendarium, — of which you w ishto know more. * * 

"Sept. 2. Vcrbascum?" Leaves setaceous. This is 
No. 30, in the drawings. It is hardly Verbascum. It has 
much the habit of Gerardia ; but the 4 stamens are all 
of uniform length. Corolla pale yellow. * * 

u R*bia p e r eg r i na" I suppose the same as R.Brou-nei, 
Mx. in your catalogue. I see a R. peregrina in Will- 
denow ; but it can hardly be this one. I would thank 
you much to inform me, still, by whom the respective 
plants have been named, and the different names by 
which the same plant is frequently called. This would 
often prevent embarrassment and difficulty. Mr. 
Elliott returned this to me as Galium hispidulum, Mx. 
It can hardly be G. hispidulum, and Rubia Browne i, 
both, of Mx.* ***** 

I have scarcely any Fuci, or Confervae. I am truly 
sorry to disappoint your wishes in this respect: but I do 
re you, I have explored the shores of Cumberland, 
and other Islands, in vain. In reaping a "plentiful har- 
vest," I have been disappointed, — cither because these 
plants are not abundant, or I am too ignorant and unfor- 
tunate to find them. The search, however, shall not be 

[•ToniiF.Y & Grat, however, have referred the Rubia Brotcnei, 
of Mx. and the R. peregrina, Walter, to Galium hispid ul um.\ 

11* 



126 

relinquished. Of Filices, I have had very few. Some 
of these, found in the neighborhood of Savannah, have 
been lost. What I have, shall be sent to you by the 
first opportunity. I have altogether but 10. 

The last letter I had from our mutual friend, Mr. 
Elliott, was dated November 8. I expect to hear from 
him by every mail. ».••••« 

With undiminished esteem I remain, my dear sir, 
Your sincere friend, W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DK. KUHLENBBBG. 

at. v ■ . / to, 181 1. 

My Dear Sir: The mail hasjusl arrived, and brought 
me a letter from Mr. ( . (dated Feb. 3,) who aj 

expresses the gn at pi Is him to aid u^. in 

oar correspondence for the promotion of scienc . Be 
say- he lias received and forwarded myletl 
up to the 22d ult Had ire hi id in Washing 

during the i i, r ho would take ch; 

of packets for you, 1 could frequently 1. portuni- 

ties of sending them, by Naval offio 
shall sot out, to-morrow, on ajoui I 50 or 80 miles 

up the st. Mary's, In pursuit of Botanical objects. * * 

In haste, I remain your sine ml, W. B. 



TO THE HON. LANGDON CHBYSS, w.ASHI.v TV. 

Dear Sir: Your obliging letter of the 3d inst has 

reached me. Accept my warmest thanks for your polite 
attention. As the session is drawing to a close, I shall 
take care not to extend my troublesome | 
the proper limits. With the highest : I remain, 

my dear sir, yours <Scc. W. B. 



127 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, February 26, 1814. 

My Dear Sir: As Congress is on the eve of rising, 
this will be the last packet I can send } t ou, for a time, by 
mail. I have just returned from the journey, mentioned 
in my last letter ; and send you enclosed such of the 
result as can be thus conveyed. Of the Phanerogamia 
which I met with, you shall be informed when I trans- 
mit my Cakndarium for the present month. 

My tour extended to within about 12 miles of the cele- 
brated Okefanoka Swamp, at the head of St. Mary's : and 
there I found a country vastly more rich in plants^than 
-ea coast. I hope to visit it again, at a more proper 
on. 

The Crinum mentioned in my Calendar turn of Sept. 
Line spoken of by Bartram, in page 59. Is 
nut vuiir Euphorbia cyathophora the E. picta, of Bartram ! 
And the Lycium CaroHnianum, L. salsuml I have only 
seen the latter in the garden, aXDungeness, — where many 
beautiful native plants are to be found. 

Of the plants of Bartram, which still require confir- 
mation, — with the exception of the abovementioncd 
Crinum (" White Lily,") — 1 know nothing worth com- 
municating. I have a solitary imperfect specimen of 
an Ascfrpias that is fragrant, which was brought to me 
by a friend. It is a small plant, but very different from 
A. pedicellata, Walter (I do not know that A. pedicellata 
is fragrant) : floweis whitish ; leaves long, narrow-lan- 
ceolate, — almost graminifolia. Ixia coelestina is said to 
be abundant on St. John's. Le Conte thinks it a new 
genus. 

I see no Chironia gracilis, nor C. stellata, in your cata- 
logue. Pray, have you those plants under other names ! 
The mail has just come in, but has brought me no letter 
from you. I hope that indisposition is not the cause of 



128 

your long silence, — and that I shall shortly hear from 
you. My letters ought now to be received by you, up 
to the 5th of February. I have since written on the 12th, 
and 19th. I remain, my dear sir, your friend, fee 

W. B. 



MRS. HTTFFNAGLB TO DR. BALDW: 

Isincast . I uary 16,1814. 

Sir: At the request of my father (Hsnn Mm: 
be K'.), I drop 7011 these few Lines. On the 24th of Jaau« 
ary,#v good father was taken very ill with something 
of a paralytic affection, — as he found it difficult to speak, 
and hi^- memory extremely weak. At present, he aj 
sits up, and articulating tinctly b did ; and 

his memory is almost quit four kind 

containing specim* m bich, receive 

father^ thanks. Bis mind wi , uneasy, thinking 

you might attribute his not writing to □ 
of inclination: and your still continuing to send, w 
gratify him rerymuch. His last letter, dated Jan 
14, he hopes yen r 1. I am in hopes thai 

short timo, lather will be able to return you some of 
your attend 

With n from father, I conclude, — and h< 

enjoy good health. With sentiment 

mam yours, ELIZABETH HUF1 ,E. 

P. S. Receive my best resj ml pray continue 

your letters. ft MUHLENBEB 



MRS. HUFFNAGLE TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, March 14, 1811. 
Esteemed Sir: In all probability my letter prior to 



129 

this (mentioning the indisposition of my father,) you 
received. During that time father has received many 
packages from you, — which lie has all overlooked with 
pleasure : But, although he is now in a state of conva- 
lescence, his head is too weak to examine them closely, 
or write to you on that subject. But I am in great hopes 
a short time will remove that difficulty. 

Father has desired me to mention the name of his 
friend, Doctor Ott, of Georgetown near the federal 
city. He would be happy to take charge of any pack- 
ages you would send to father, and forward them by 
Baltimore to Lancaster. 

Zaccheus Collins, of Philadelphia, would lik'ewise 
forward any thing for father. 

Since my last letter, we have met with a severe loss 
in our family ; namely, the death of John Mixsser, of 
Philadelphia, — who, after a short illness, left this world 
of wretchedness, and was numbered with those that have 
been. He has left a widow and 7 small children to de- 
plore his loss. Long, in this " valley of affliction", will 
his loss be felt. But we must not murmur at the dispen- 
sations of God. Christianity, I hope, will be the widow's 
solace. That, alone, can lift the soul above affliction's 
power. 

Father has received no letter from Mr. Elliott since 
October 30. I must now, my esteemed friend, bid you 
adieu. Father and mother desire to be remembered to 
yourself and good lady. Be pleased to accept my re- 
spects to Mrs. Baldwin, and self. I remain with senti- 
ments of esteem, yours, 

ELIZABETH HUFFNAGLE. 

P. S. I hope in a short time to add, myself, my obser- 
tions on the specimens. God bless you and your lady 
and family, My apoplexy is going fast. 

H. MUHLENBERG. 



130 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

8/. Mary's, March 19, 1814. 

My Dear Sir: On the 12th inst. I received a letter 
from your daughter (Mrs. Huffnagle,) dated the 16th 
ult. containing the painful information of your having 
been visited with a severe illness. By the same letter, 
however, I had the consolation to liud that you were 
fast recovering, — and were even able to satisfy me on 
that interesting subject, by adding a note containing 
your kind respects, with your own hand. I had bee 
very uneasy, supposing that sickness alone had occa- 
sioned your silence, — BS you had ever been so prompt a 
correspondent. 

Agreeably to your request, my deal sir, I shall con- 
tinue to writ- 1 , and contribute all I ran to l 
wishes. Indeed, I shall I 1 bound, in gratitude, 

to make you all (he retains in my pon the nai 

ous favors you bav< d upon me. Pray do not 

be too anxious t<> answer in) i, until you 

well as not to run any risk by making such 

I will now gisc you my Calendarium for Febru. 
You will perceive that the plants have generally flowi 
earlier this season, than the last 

Feb. 2. Bartonia vcrna [Ctntaunlla, Rich.] in 
flower. 
11 5. The mean temperature of this climate, for 
the last year, ending this day, i- <>7i°. 
Range of temperature, from 30° to 96°. 
Note. 1 take the temperature three times 
a day, — and add the mean, daily, monthly, 
and yearly. 
14 7. A 7fiaryllis A ta rnasco in flower. This plant is 

not abundant on the sea coast. 
** 10. Spergula saginoides, L. [Sagina decumbens, 
Torr. k Gray.] and Amygdalus Persica 



131 

(Peach) in flower. The latter has mostly 
been destroyed, in this neighborhood, by 
the Gale in September, last. 
Feb. 15. Poly gala lute a in flower ; but rather sickly. 

44 20. Viola palmata, Rubus procumbens [Canaden- 
sis, L. Torr& Gray.], Cercis Canadensis, 
Acer rubrum, and Antirrhinum Canadense, 
all flowering. 

44 25. Rubus villosus (Blackberry) in flower. 

44 27. Symplocus ( Hopea) tinctoria, Geranium Ca- 
rolinianum, Mitchella repens, Plantago 

Virginica. 

******* 

That Heaven. may grant you a speedy recovery, is the 
fervent wish of your obliged friend, W. B.. 

P. S. Pray give my best respects to Mrs. Huffnagle. 
I hope she will continue to inform me how you are, 
until you are so far recovered as to be able to write. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, March 26, 1814. 

My Dear Sir: Finding, by the last mail, that Con- 
gress will not rise until the 11th of April, I put you up a 
few more specimens to be franked by Mr. Cheves, who 
is so kindly disposed to aid us. 

I hope that you are daily recovering, and that I shall 
soon have the pleasure of hearing from you. 

With warm esteem, I remain, &c. 

W. B. 



132 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, April 1, 1814. 
Dear Sir: I now send you my Cab ndarium, for 
March, — which will be Less full than that lor February, 
pa account of the unusal severity of the weather. 
March l. This morning the mercury stood at 26°! 
Ice was formed near an inch and a fa 
thickness. The Sowers, lea ind 

many young plants, totally d< L — 

The cold commenced after a thund 
gust on the 27th of February. 1 
tinned frosty for several day-. 

44 11. Poh, SJ [nana, 8 G.] in 

Son er. 

44 20. Azuha nud 
in Bon er. 
t4 27. Krigia Virginic . /' 'la. 

98. // ' mbeUata, Vicut CaroHnui 

\ sett! us r I 
44 31. Bn>ussi>ntia j>api/ri/> DO, (> ■ \ IM, 

Ctltis . R 

tana Oiihago^ G aphalium pur pu r euw^ 
Scorzont ra pinnatifnla. 
Jatmpha slimulosa, Samolus \ Vila*, in 

Sower. 
This has been a cold, blustering, and variable month ; 

and very sickly. I hi n much indie ; but 

since the weather has become pleasant, I have reco- 
vered my health. 

In Looking over your Catalogtu . I find that Sarrar^ 
minor, Walter, has JJor. hit. "Number 926" has, I have 
no doubt, always Jlor. purp. Can it be the same plant ! 
In a letter I received from Mr. Elliott, by the last 
mail, he informed me that he considered Sarracmia va- 
riolaris, Mx. as the true minor of Walter. There is no 



133 

S. variolaris in your Catalogue. I have never seen the 
S.jlava, — unless it be the S. variolaris. There is some 
confusion in these plants, which I do not know how to 
reconcile. f * ****** 

April 2. I have just returned from the country, and 
ived Mrs. Huffnagle's letter of the 14th ult. and 
have only time to express, before the mail closes, the 
pleasure it has given me to learn that you are still in a 
fair way to recover, — and that the specimens I sent you 
afforded some amusement. 

I sympathize with you all in the loss of Mr. Musser, — 
with whom I had the pleasure to be acquainted. Having 
tasted deeply of the cup of sorrow, I can truly say, with 
Mrs. Huffnagle, that the doctrines of Christianity fur- 
nish the only solace that can lift the soul above affliction's 
power. 

Mrs. B. joins me in best wishes for yourself and lady, — 
and Mrs. Huffnagle, who has been so good as to write. 
I remain vour affectionate friend, 

W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, April 15, 1814. 

My Dear Sir: After a long silence, I begin to feel 
some strength to try what I can do, to thank you per- 
sonally for your letters and communications. I send 
you a list of the numbers, although I am not able to say 
much: Indeed, many were fragments by the carriage. 
In a future day, when close examination follows, I will 
know more ; and I have to beg your assistance in naming 
the plants. ********* 

[fThe species of this genus (6 in number) have been well deter- 
mined by Ckoo.m, and Turkey <k Gray.] 

12 



134 

My youngest son, Frederick Augustus, a pupil of 
Dr. Rush, has taken his degree, at the late commence- 
ment, as M. D. and will live at Lancaster. He will assist 
me in Botany: Probably you will sec his hand more 
than once. I recommend him to your notice. I men- 
tioned in a former letter, Dr. David Ott, of Georgetown, 
near the seat of Congress, as willing to take charge of 
packets. 

Favor me with emendations* and additions, to my 
Catalogue. — May you ft re w< -11. With compliment 
Mrs, Baldwin, and the botanical ladies, 1 remain un- 
changeably, sir, your sincere friend, 



DR. DALDWIN TO DR. MT7HLEK 

U / . \ '. 1614. 

Dear Sin: Hoping thai you continue well enough to 
take an interest in Botany, l mil do* fcive jrou my 
Cakndarium Florae for the present month. 

April 1. Vcrltdsrum Thapsus, Y<icrinium staminatm, 
Dro> \ . / / 

in Bower. 
44 3. Juncus effutu$i Cynodon Dactylon^ Com us 

florid a. 

44 9. Bignoni* caprealaia, Viburnum nudum, Sal* 

via h/n/t<i, lampyru (Fire-fly) numei 
44 10. Oenothera fruticotv, Campai foliata. 

44 10. White frost! Vegetation killed, in many 

places. 

44 24. Itea Virginic/i,Erythrina Corallodendron. 

44 20. Acalypha Yirginica, Polygonum scandals. 

44 27. Prinos glabcr. 

44 29. Magnolia grandijlora. — Fruit of the 44 Dew- 
berry," Rubus procumbent, ripe. 



135 

Since writing the above, I have received your letter 
of the 15th inst. I cannot express the pleasure it gives 
me to hear from you again, after so long a silence. 
Every assistance in my power shall be given you, in 
naming the plants, &c. 

I congratulate your son, Frederick, on his obtaining 
a medical degree. Pray inform him that he has my 
best wishes -, and that it will afford me much pleasure to 
cultivate an acquaintance with him. 

I expect to set out, to-morrow morning, with a view 
of ascending the St Mary's 80 or 90 miles, by water; 
and shall pick up all I can by the way, — and inform you 
of the result, on my return. 

In my last letter, I enclosed you a little water plant. 
I now send you another. Neither of them is numbered, — 
as they are single. 

Accept my best wishes for your welfare, — while I 
remain your sincere friend, W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, May 25, 1814. 

Dear Sir : I had the pleasure to receive your last let- 
ter, dated the 30th of April. The Calendarium of the 
last month was very valuable to me. The beginning of 
the year may be much sooner, — but after the flowering 
of the Robinia, you approach within one month. Our 
Robinia began May 17, the viscosa, May 25. 

I have marked some of your plants, of which I long 

to see and hear more. The others are known to me. 

******* 

I have looked over your numbers, sent by Mr. Cheves. 
Unluckily, a great number have been so much damaged, 
that I remain uncertain until I see more. I wish your 
kind annotations: — 



130 

1. Which are your plants not mentioned in my cata- 
logue! 

2. Which should have the mark, C. being probably 
not natives I 

3. What do you say to 80 many of your numbers, left 
without a Dane — dubious plant- 

A great dumber of your and Mr. Elliott's sper iii! 
I left in doubt, — and will 1 ml S. ; will 

find amongst other names. flPiiytlriif Qbpkial (V. 

TER's Erysimum pinn(ttum y J is HOW in llower, with me. 

Rumex hastatulus, milii, Bowen also with nee, from ] 
seeds: in habit, very near to A&t nial. 

Of my Elliottu, I \\ i>h exceedingly to My 

specimen ia \ Biy imperfect 

An.\iou>ly 1 took ; 'x*s BgU*SS of Plq i , — 

which is a rery difficult genus; erf which lei 
are In ( 'apnlina 

The * water plant," on< ba your last 1 

rather a Zoophyte, — rather too young. The proof 
Zoophyte, is the particular oytter metf, when you burn 

it. * * * * * * * 

Had yotl any luck, in your last excursion 1 And does 

Mr. Elliott continue hi-- correspondence! He I 
excellent observer. 

I hope you will not be disturbed by the threats of the 
enemy. My respects to Mrs. Baldw in, and the b 

nizing ladies. I remain wi 

cere friend, II. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, Junr 17, 18H. 

Dear Sir: Your letter, dated the 25ih ultimo, came 
to hand by the last mail, and gave me great plcasur • . — 



137 

as it afforded an evidence of returning health, which I 
hope will be permanent. 

To your queries, I will endeavor to make some 
reply: — 

M Anona obovata," (1182) — flowers generally white ; 
but I have seen them tinged with purple, on Sat ilia 
river, and not differing in any other way. 

" Clematis reticulata :" Leaves beautifully reticulated ; 
leaflets oval, mucronate, rarely three-lobed; flowers 
varying from a rose color to white. 

11 Iris hexagona" — does not appear to differ materially 
from the northern versicolor, — except that the flower has 
not so much of that mottled appearance, and does not 
smell so strong. Le Conte informed me that it was the 
hexagona of Walter ; but that he could only consider it 
a variety of the versicolor. 

- Trifolium pumilum" — is new. Enclosed you will 
find a head of seed, which I hope will vegetate. Found 
on the flat common, close to this city; and in a similar 
situation at Coweta, on Chatahooche. It is unknown to 
Mr. Elliott. 

44 Utrkularia purpurea." The leaves, and manner of 
growth, of this, resemble the northern vulgaris, — but it 
is much smaller. Scape mostly one, but sometimes 
three-flowered ; flowers dark purple, small. * * * 

Of the plants not mentioned in your Catologue, — and 
of those requiring the mark, C, — I will tiy to be more 
particular, in future. 

Of the numerous Crypto gamia, which are left in doubt, 
I am much in the dark for want of books; and Mr. El- 
liott, for the same reason, informs me that he cannot 
render me the necessary assistance. Of the doubtful 
Phanerogamia,! will, in a future letter, tell you all I know. 

I have not heard from Mr. Elliott, since I wrote last, 
and suppose he must be very busy. I have not seen the 
Elliottia; and Mr. Elliott informed me that he was 

12* 



138 

fearful it would turn out to be only an Octandrous 
Clethra. 

The result of my last enoUMOB up St. Mary's, shall 
be detailed to you, presently, in my Cat* mlarium of 
May 1st and 2d. I was obliged to hurry home in i 
sequence of the enemy appearing off mi r bar, and threat- 
ening invasion : and was afterwards i lyaffii 
for near a week, from hating taken hold Qtf the Rhus 
vcmix — although with all possible cart* — to obtain 
cimens. I now go on with my Cal> ndarium Fbrm : — 
May 1. Lobelia Clayton/iana in flower. Cactus Opm 

QhfC%fKS9irnpUcifo . \ < ma. 

\ A. ophi 

Hypericu m g I 

Bartr ! flowea Whil nt i DM 

ais from one root, procumbent ; 
linear, crowded, inclining t<» one side of 
the glen j umbel terminal, flowers small, 

nectar i Plant ago 

>/. f in fl ■ ! ; 1« >' 

lanceolate; spike *ery long, thinly flow- 
ed. P a (1065.) I ca)U U P. 
aphyila, — aa it is doI furnished with ha 
like the tmc seta i\. bul merely >//- 
puht . Asclepias — resembling the ab 
tfragran*,) but the flowers vari 
whitish and purple, 
axillary and terminal. May it be your 
<!< bills ! or may the / "' be th 

Euphorbia pumihi—\ I, vmti 

late ; flowers in a kind of umbel, vs 
minute, whitish : Plant about r> inch* 

Euphorbia linear i folia — leal 

stem supporting a Bingle, small, wl 

flower. I cannot tell whether either 
these is in your Catalog* s irankia 
uncinata in tlower. 



139 

May 2. Ruellia parvifiora — I think new,, — as I have 
all that arc marked in your Catalogue: 
Stem 6 inches, erect, angular, glabrous, 
branching ; leaves opposite, oval, obtuse, 
entire, smooth ; flowers axillary, sessile, 
small, pale blue : Hab. in marshc- 
u 3. Linum Yirginianum, Ny7?iphaea odorata, per- 
haps, — almost destitute of odor: flowers 
very large — 44 petals in one flower. 
44 8. Passijlora incarnata ; Magnolia glauca. 
" 15. Eleusine Indica; Digit aria sanguinalis : 17- 

tis rot undi folia, Mx. Ammi capiUaceum. 
44 16. Fruit of Yaccinium Myrsinites ripe. 
44 19. Sambucus Canadensis in flower. 
44 23. Ceanothus Americanus ; Asdepias tvberosa ; 

Panicu?n glaucum ; Chamaerops serrulata. 
44 29. Gaura august if olia ; Bupht'iahnumfrutescens: 
from this plant, Soda may be manufac- 
tured, abundantly. 
44 31. Cassia Tor a ; Sanicula Mar Hand ica. 
Beside these, are several other plants, so much in 
doubt that I cannot yet say any thing certain about 
them. Perhaps I have, among others, Serpicula (Elodea, 
Mx.) — Tragia — and, I think, at least two species of 
ga not in your Catalogue. 
My C'lUndarium for June, will also furnish several 
. or doubtful plants. The early part of the month 
of May was cool and rainy, — the latter part, dry and 
sultry ; — the mercury rising as high as 96°, which is not 
usual in this month. * * * * If 

you would be a little more particular in returning the 
names of my specimens, as far as they are known to 
you, according to your Catalogue, I should then be bet- 
ter qualified to answer your query — "which are your 
plants not mentioned in my catalogue?" — No. 1278, 
you have returned Polymnia Tetragonotheca, L. How 



HO 

am I to know certainly that this is Tetragonothecahelian- 
ihoides, in your Catalogue* 

I hope, before long, to have an opportunity of sending 
you some mor is; but cannot say when. 

Pray send one of your cat r Mr. Wil: 

Gibson, of this place, — and mark the price. Have you 
completed the iuppfam nf, mentioned in a formei 
I am anxious to Hoping that you m, tinue 

many years in the enjoyment of health and happio 
I remain your sincere friend, W. B. 

P. S. Mrs. B. sends her beet respects. Theboi 
Ladies areall married! Bui say they will not forsake 
the Science. One of them is in Savannah, and wi 
that she is collecting specimens for a 

Dr. Boykin hi i me ; and I I 

from Col. H.w ace the comment 

tilities among t 



DR. MCHIJ HALUW 

/ J I. 18] 1. 

Dear Sir: Your excellent I the 17th Jum 

rived safe, and gave me much pleasure, [i tulai 

I thank you for the Caiendarium of May, last, which has 
been rich, — corresponding with our June. With as, the 

common run of Flora is. April, 59 [Plant- ll , r ,] — 

."May, <)1— June, 177— July, 184— August, 106 — Sept 

ber, 141— Octofr r, 90. 

I have i ! some of your plants I ■■■.— 

if ever you have an opportunity to send specimens, and 

further observations. 
May 1. Asclepiasfragrans, Bartram. ") Both re- 

A. fragrant i aff.Jlor. variegatis: 3 main un- 
certain to me; perhaps because I have only 
dried specimens. * * ■ • * 



141 

Polymnia Tetragojiotheca is the same with Tetragono- 
them helianthoides, Willd. and Persoon. Being used to 
the old names, we are apt to use them without distinc- 
tion. Room would not permit the synonym every 
where. 

Your last specimens, by Mr. Cheves, were neces- 
sarily small, and some imperfect. Wherever I am cer- 
tain, and become certain, I will add the name of my 
catalogue. You see how much can be added. I will 
be much obliged to you to add your name to such spe- 
cimens as are not in my catalogue. 

In a late publication of Michaux, there was a good 
figure of his Planera uhnifolia, — mentioned to grow on 
the Savannah ; habit of Ulmus. Have you the samel I 
would be glad to see a specimen. I am sorry that no 
certain account can be given of my Elliottia, and of its 
fruit. Lyon will have it to be a new Genus, — and I sin- 
cerely wish to be certain. 

I will send by the mail, a copy of my catalogue for 
Mr. Gibson, under your address, — and beg him to re- 
ceive it as a present. The postage he may pay, as it 
goes surer. Mr. Ellliott has not favored me with an 
answer to my last letter. Indeed, my former corres- 
pondents, — if I except my indefatigable Dr. Baldwin, 
and friend Collins, — seem to have forgotton me ; and I 
am reckoned amongst the dead. My excursions are 
narrowed very much, and I am confined to my garden. 
Your Phalaris (1180) has been in flower some time, in 
my garden. It was new to me,— near to minor;— and 
very different from arundinacea. Is it perennial 1 and 
certainly a native? I had a very small specimen from 
beyond the Mississippi. 

Remember my best respects to Mrs. Baldwin. I re- 
main unchangeably, Sir, your sincere friend, H. M. 



142 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, July 15, 1814. 

Dear Sir: I have this moment sent off a packet for 
you, containing 39 specimens, via Washington city, to 
the care of Dr. Ott. They are entrusted to Mr. Bruce, 
of the U. S. Navy, — who goes on by land to the vicinity 
of Washington, and has engaged to forward them with 
care. He gave me, however, such short warning of his 
departure, that I had not time to write by him. 

Before I make any observations on the specimen 
will give you my Calendar i urn for June. 

June 1. Phytok nulra in flower, ( > j^halanthvs 

occidentaiis, i na. 

41 3. Cuscutti \ ■!. Hi radicuns. — 

Polygonum avicularc. ^sacum dac- 

/ v 
14 4. (• } abetta. < ta: I do not 

find this in y<<ur vers 

Yyrisjlrxw 
44 G. Cyrilla ! ra, Typha a Ka, Vi- 

burnum dentotum* Zixania davulosa: I 

ha\ i but one species of Zizania in 

Georgia, — and that at Jefferson, en Satilla 
river. Bartsia i .- this is the first 

time I have met with the Bartsia on the 
seacoast of Georgia. It does not ap] 
to be in it^ element, here. Amaranthus 
tpinosu*. 

44 15. Si nfcio hieracifolius. 

44 16. Rhexia Mariana; I'niola gracilis ; Viburnum 
scandais? I call it so, until better inform- 
ed.* No. 1473. I have not seen the flon 
It climbs, like Cclastrus, to the tops of the 

[*This proved to be Dccumaria barbara, L. Sec Letter to Dr. 
M. dated January 3, 1815.] 



143 

highest trees, — shooting out many hori- 
zontal branches which, covered with broad 
green leaves, give it a beautiful appearance. 
June 26. Bidensbipinnata ; Xanthium strumarium. 
11 29. Rhexia Virginia* ; Eupatorium rotundi folium: 
this Eupatorium is in as high repute here, 
as a medicine, as the E. perfol latum is in 
Pennsylvania. Lechea major, Mx. 
The greatest part of this month has been excessively 
rainy. Mean temperature, 78°. Range of temperature, 
from 66° to 96°: But very healthy. 

As soon as circumstances will admit, I will give you 
further information. In the mean time, I am with es- 
teem, your friend, W. B. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, August 2, 1814. 

Dear Sir : With gratitude I acknowledge the receipt 
of your letter, dated July 15, with your pleasing Calen- 
darium of June, 1814. Probably soon after^ you will 
have received my letter, dated July 4, and the catalogue 
for your friend, Mr. Gibson, — to whom 1 beg you will 
remember my best respects, — and my wishes to get a 
few more specimens of the curious Targionia ? No. 1471. 

Mr. Elliott has favored me with a letter and packet, 
furwarded to Mr. Collins, — which I acknowledged im- 
mediately. His packet was very acceptable to me. * 

Your promised packet, by Mr. Bruce, has not yet 
come to hand. I do not doubt Dr. Ott will forward it 
in due time. I have mentioned it to a friend of mine, 
0. Rich, at Georgetown, — who has published a Synop- 
sis of American (or rather N. A.) Genera, and sent me 
a copy. It is rather a copy of Persoon's Genera (Ame- 
ricana); and, although he has added the Genera men- 



144 

tioned in my catalogue, will remain imperfect until more 
is done. 

As you have so often fulfilled my flashes, I add a few 
for a future day. (h nmthera grandifiora^ Bartr. we tare 
lost in our gardens : If possible, I wish to ban 
seeds. Tt is not the grandifiora^ Pun, — which is proba- 
bly only a variety of m to be the 

longijlora, of Curtis. — Salix IS a dili ml I 

long to see a perfect L ach of yours] num- 

bered. If b capsule could be added, tin present would 

be the more welcome* In winter, a I 

perhaps, would pn . — Plmmera 1 have i 

Mr, J, vo.\ has promised me a Bpecimen, when he returns 

from Team • • • • 

Th< Of your I - •/// 1 wish t< I 900] — 

especially if you will be pleased to add, as hei 
the color of the corolla, and the duration of the pi. 
to fill up the many blanks left in my Catalogue* ■ • I 
remain with pn em and affection, sir, your most 

Lienl and sino id, Jl. IL 



DR. BALDWIN To DR. RG. 

SI. Mary's, 8 17. 1814 

Dear Sir: Your interesting Lett ulj i. and Au- 

gust % were duly receired; for which accept my 
thanks. My packet, by Mr; B I hope has 

you in safety. V(»ur Catalogue^ also, for Mr. I 
camesafeto hand, — forwhicfa he returns you hu best 

thanks; and will, if possible, procure you better b] 

mens of the Targionia? Since I wrote my letter of the 
15th July, I have found it impossible to pay much atten- 
tion to Botany. I have had many sick to attend to; and 
alarms from the enemy have necessarily pn 1 me 

from making any important excursions, off the 





ii 


13. 




ii 


24. 


A 


ug. 3 




II 


4. 



145 

board. The month of July has likewise been exces- 
sively rainy, — so that my Calendar ium will be very 
poor. Such as it is, I communicate for your inspection. 
July 2. Schoenus effusus flowering. 

44 6. Sarothra gentianoides. Teucrium Canadense, 
44 11. Acalypha Caroliniana. 

44 12. Epidendrum Magnoliae in flower. This was 
placed, last winter, upon a dead Melia Aze~ 
da rack. 
Polymnia Uvedalia. Spartina polystachya. 
A r alia spinosa. 
Hieracium Gronovii. 

Aster tortifolius. Solidago — with this family 
of plants I am much embarrassed ; but will 
send on my whole collection, when an op- 
portunity offers. 
44 10. Marsliallia angustifolia. 
44 15. Glycine Apios. Vernonia Noveboracensis. 
44 18. Asclepias verticillata. Scirpus relrofractus , 
44 23. Mikanin scandens. Phaseolus perennis. * * 
Beside the above, I have met with a few that remain 
in doubt, — of which I shall speak hereafter, when more 
at leisure : and also attend to your several queries. 
I remain, my dear sir, most respectfully, &c, 

W. B. 
P. S. Mrs. B. sends her respects to you. We are all 
favored with health, at this sickly season. Mrs. Miller, 
the mother of Miss Greene (now Mrs. Shaw t ), died of 
a bilious fever, on the night of the 2nd inst. 



DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster^ October 4, 1814. 
Dear Sir: Your letter of September 17, has arrived, 
and given me great pleasure. The packet, mentioned 

13 



146 

in your former letter, has not arrived. Probably, by the 
troubles in Washington, it has been mislaid, or lost ; for 
which I would be very sorry, — in particular, on account 
of your Viburnum scandens, Caladium, and other valua- 
ble specimens. 

Your Calendarium of July and August, has added 
much to my information: and I beg you may continue 
it, with further observations on dubious plants, — and ob- 
serve which plants continue longest in flower, at th< 

proach of your winter. Onr autumn is now \ bible, by 
the change of leaves: the Brotissonetia is, with Juglm, 

turning yellow, — although we had D 

• ••••• • 

By a letter from the Rev. Mr. Van Vleck, at Salem, 
N. Carolina, J hear that two of your Southern Hotanists 

have been at Salem, on ft Botanical risitj — Dr. M 
Bams, a near neighbor of the excellent Wi -and 

Mr. Le Contk ; — looking for mountain plants. \]y in- 
formation from Mr, Elliott, I know that Walter has 
not only described the Carolina plants near his ; 

but also mountain plants, collected by FbAZBB, and left 

with Waltbb for a description. Both Mr. Le Com and 
Dr. Macbride could add much to our Information, if 
you could persuade them to communicate illustrations 

to Walter's Flora. 

I mention a few dubious plants; In particular, 
Carotin iana : ( vUinson ia praecox — tfydnuA i$ ( arolin iana ; 
Zizania, different from t i; Rajania. Mr. El- 

liott has tried to assist mo ; but wo must have more 
assistance. Have you hoard any thing, lately, of this 
our most valuable friend ! My last letter to him, 
July 13, since that I had no answer! I had expected 
from him an answer to some queries on the Charleston 
Botanic Garden, — and your numbers, * * whether 
native 1 What is Carthamus Carolinianus, — or Stokesia? 
It would give me great pleasure to hear something ccr- 



147 

tain. In my last letter, I began to mention my addenda 
to my Catalogue, as far as I have gone. I now con- 
tinue, according to the pages of the catalogue: 

Page 32. Viburnum shall T add scandens ? 

" 37. Rumex hastatulus, Baldwin — Georgia. * * 
11 50. Rosa — The American Rosae deserve a re- 
vision. 
11 50. Dalibarda lobata, Baldwin — Georgia. * * 
Have you seen a Castanea nana, Brickell sent to me 
from Savannah 1 and is it really a distinct species'? It 
seemed, to me, very distinct; but I wish to have your 
opinion. I have seen it but once : and so of the Prunus 
pubescens, from Georgia. I cannot describe the pleasure 
I should find, by all your specimens of Solidago, and 
Aster, of the Southern States, — with your opinion on them. 
They are really adversaria. Mr. Le Conte, I hear, has 
made excellent observations on these Genera. We have 
a great number of new species. 

I am sorry to hear of the loss of Mrs. Miller ; and hope 
often to hear of the health of the rest of our botanical 
circle. My health is neither good, nor bad; but my 
friendship and gratitude unchangeable. With my best 
respects to them, and in particular to Mrs. Baldwin, I 
remain, sir, your very sincere friend, H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

St. Mary's, November 11, 1814. 
Dear Sir: On my arrival here, the day before yes- 
terday, from a cruise of near three weeks along with the 
Flotilla, I had the pleasure to receive your letter of the 
4th of October, — for which I return you my sincere 
thanks. Since my letter of the 17th of September, my 
time has been so wholly engrossed in attending upon 
the sick, that Botany was out of the question. Just at 



148 

the commencement of the sickly season, my Mate quit 
the service, — and left me, not only to prescribe, but to 
put up medicines, for more than 40 patients, daily. The 
enemy having threatened to break up the inland trade, 
between this place and Savannah, — on the night of the 
6th of October, he sent his barges into St. Audi 
sound (between the Islands of Cumberland and Jekyl,) 
and cut out one of our gun vmsels, along with 
coasters that were under convoy. This Induced us to 
send on ourwhole force towards Savannah, — with a hope 
of chastising the enemy, should he have the ten 
make another attack with his I In tin 

I volunteered, — having employed a Burgeon to affiead 

the Hospital, in my absence. The enemy made his ftp- 

praranr.-, without venturing to attack us. — But thil mu-t 
i dry dot ul to you. 
Of the few plants which I Bd with, in this n'lii- 
the Islands of J'kijl, St. Simon's, St. Cather 

I shall inform you in the proper place. We have 

had a little frost, — but not sufficient to el 

completely; as Ast- . 8 . I Kno, TripiereOa^ 

Liatris, Inula y fcc. fc& arc >till in llowor. 

I am very sorry that my packet by Mr. Bruce has not 
reached you, — as I do not know when I shall be able to 
replace it. Of Viburnum scandens, I think there can be 
no doubt; but I wish to be certain, — and shall carefully 
observe its flowers, should I lire till the ensuing spring.* 
The berry and seed are Viburnum, as near as [ could 
judge from the imperfect state in which I met with them. 
Caladium, I find Mr. Elliott calls C. $pecio9tnm. The 
generic character of this plant makes it unequivocally 
Caladium — if there be any precision in generic charac- 
ters: and from my recollection of Arum Yirginician, it 
is distinct. 
The last letter I received from our worthy correspon- 
[* Decumaria barbaro, L. See letter of January 3, 1815.] 



149 

dent, Mr. Elliott, was dated the 20th of September; in 
which he informs me that he is preparing a Catalogue of 
the Plants of S. Carolina and Georgia, for publication. 
He has since sent me a printed address, to the Philoso- 
phical Society of S. Carolina, — which he delivered on 
the 15th of August: So that, although he has neglected 
us for some time, he has not neglected his scientific 
pursuits. He informed me, however, as an excuse for 
his long silence, that the affairs of the Bank of Charles- 
ton had, for a considerable time, required his unremit- 
ted attention. 

The few plants that I noticed in September and Octo- 
ber, I will now attend to. 

September, 1. Lobelia crassiucula [glandulosa, Walt. 
DC] in flower. 

" 3. Aster Carolinianus. 

11 8. Lythrum verticillatum, in flower and seed. 

11 18. Eclipta brachypoda ; Iva. * * * 

October is almost a blank. It has been our sickly 
month. On the 23d, I observed in flower, on Jekyl 
Island, Solidago lanceolata, Aster diffusus? and some 
others. Cenchrus tribuloides nearly done flowering. — 
28th, on St. Catharine's, I observed the Cakile maritima 
still in flower. Salicornia in seed. 

Of your many queries, which have been neglected so 
long, I must beg a little longer indulgence, to enable 
me to answer them more correctly than it is possible 
at present. 

It is a midnight hour that I have this time embraced, 
to thank you for your attention to me. I have not leisure 
even to make the necessary references, to enable me to 
speak with certainty: But hope shortly to have a little 
respite from the unremitted anxiety and toil, which for 
months I had to endure, — when I shall again most joy- 
fully resume my favorite pursuit, and render you all the 
assistance within my limited power. 

13* 



150 

I must request you to direct your next letter to Savan- 
nah. It has been thought most proper, un« itiag 
circumstances, to make that city our Head Quai 
the winter. The week after next, we expect to move on. 

It is anticipated that we shall return to this station ag 
in April. 

Accept my most hearty wcll-wi-h. w ith those 

of Mrs. B. while 1 remain unchangeably your sincere 
friend, W. B. 

P. S. The leaves of our native forest tre< m havr hardly 
changed. Those of the MeHa (Pride of India), have 
faded and arc falling, — which they do with the slightest 

cold — almost without frost. Those of th< B • 

remain green. On (he 99ft ult. at \) , miles south 

of Savannah, I observed Ihe common locosl [RMwtm 

Psrud-acacin) in flower. 



DR. MUIILI To DR. BALDWIN. 

Ixincastcr, \ m nber 28, 181 1. 
Dear Sir: I was much - .1 lor 

from jrou, after waiting for some time, and gettin 

of some accident w h i < * h might hav happened in our 

perilous times. Von hav*? been on an r\ D lull of 

trouble. At Savannah, I imp \<>u will find in 

and recreation. For your continued CdkmdmriMw^ re- 
ceive my thanks. • • • » 

1 will thank you very much I r nan* id I 

and SoUda^inc*, which you have Bent; — especially if 
you can add Elliott's and LeConte's Dames. Ne 
other Genera want elucidation more, [foreran oppor- 
tunity happens, specimens would still be better. Your 
last packet I am afraid is lost forever. 



151 

When you arrive at Savannah, I have many desiderata, 
as usual. 

1. Does Mr. Abbott continue his drawings of Ameri- 
can plants ? What has he figured ? Probably you will 
find the first edition, done by J. E. Smith. Some of his 
plants want explanation, on a second edition. No.l, 
Asclepias amplcjcicmdis ; is it A. aniphxicaulis, Mx. or 
rather obtusifolia? * • • iVo. 60, is this Prw- 
nus Chicasa, — or another, not sufficiently described 1 * 
* * I only saw the book at Dr. Barton's, in a 
great hurry. 

2. When you have an opportunity to see Mr. Oem- 
ler's collection of Algae, I wish you to look again, and 
examine his numbers. Perhaps you may discover some 
native. I think I have seen some of them, since I sent 
his collection back : But, in such nice affairs, it is ne- 
cessary to look again and often. Is there no possibility 
to get a copy of a few 1 . Mr. Oemler is an excellent 
hand, himself. Of his specimens, I would desire your 
opinion on Fucus — 1. coronopifolius. 3. mamillosus. 4. 
sclaginoides. 11. sinuosus. 12. ceranoides. 13. alatus. 
21. aculeatus. The rest, I remember well. Of his confer- 
vae, I wish you to examine cristata, with your No. 1045. 
Mr. Oemler is a friend whom I esteem very much. He 
will be of service to you, to send my Elliottia, and Col- 
Vinson ia, Jiore purpureo, — of which he gave me the first 
information, — though I have no good specimen. 

3. Mr. Kin, a curious botanist at Philadelphia, sent me, 
a few days ago, two specimens of Prunus, which have 
excited my attention. Indeed, Prunus is very difficult, 
and wants our examination : 

a. Prunus, at Ebenezer, Georgia ; foliis ovatis, acutis, 
argute et aequaliter serratis, petiolo quadriglanduloso ; 
drupa viridi-lutea, eduli. Beside several other new 

1, on the road to St. Mary's. 

b. Prunus, on the sea-shore, from Virginia to Caro- 



152 

\ina.;—foliis lanceolatis, margine glandulosis : nearly al- 
lied to P. Chicasa, — but, according to Kin, different. Is 
this Abbott's 60! I take it for the real lanceolata, Willd. 
and the same which is brought to Baltimore market, as 
"Mountain Plum" 

I had a new Prunus, from Elliott, found at Waynes- 
borough, different from both; — my pubesctn$. Ha 
you seen this! The lerotiM, Virginiana^ pygmaea, 
Pi nnsylvanica, I know well. Pumila* and the m 
common Wild Plum [ Americana t Marshall,] are dubi- 
ous to me. 

What I have thought to be Ephedra^ has rai 
wish to sec more, — and to inquire, ran it s 

* * * Lh fog at a dJ from -alt wat< 

am no judge. • ••••• 

I have given you BO many hot yet ans\\< i 

that I dare not add another question. The winter is 
long: satisfy my curiosity bydegi ry an- 

m\ er n ill l" tt addition to me. 

Mr, Elliott b ttentome. Be sent his oration, 

which pleases me very much, in i be in- 

tends to finish his ratal LTOlina and (. 

plants. Hay his health 1 id! I am sorrytl 

so many Georgia and Carolina plants were dropt, In my 
catalogue, for want of clear specimens: Hon .ill 

may be added, at a future day. I long t i hear your 
names, — which would be sacred to me. Looking oi 

your Delaware specimens, I find a number DOt D, 

or named, by any other Botanist * * 

Your Viburnum scandenx {e\ n a leaf) would pl< 

me very much. Certainly it is a discovery. How d< 

it differ from Thunberg's virens (scandens, Ters.)1* 
# » • • * • • 

Algae, Lichens, and Fungi have undergone an entire 

revision: that is, all remain which were given, — but 

[♦See letter of January 3 ; 1815.] 



153 

very many have been added. Mr. Collins has assisted 
me by many specimens from the Jcrsies, and elsewhere. 

When you look over again what is wanting in my 
catalogue, very many will occur to you. Pray do not 
forget to mention such — with your, or Mr. Elliott's 
names. 

My health is still precarious. Mr. Bigelow continues 
to send letters and specimens. The northern plants are 
not much different from ours. 

With unchangeable esteem, I remain, 

Sir, your most obedient and sincere friend, 

H. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Savannah, January 3, 1815. 

Dear Sir: At last we are moored in this place ; but 
have hardly yet had time to feel ourselves at home, or 
to become settled, so as to attend with ease to any favo- 
rite pursuit. But, after a voyage of two weeks through 
an intricate inland passage, we arrived in health and in 
safety, on the evening of the 26th ult., and found your 
letter of the 28th of November in the post office. For 
this valuable letter, accept my best thanks. As you will 
be anxious to hear from me, I shall wait no longer, — 
but give you such information as I already possess. * * 

The Elliot tia, Mr. Oemler informs me, is found in 
the neighborhood of Waynesborough. Roots shall be 
procured, if possible. His Collinsonia, with purple 
flowers, is alive ; but cannot be investigated at this 
season. 

Of the genus Prunus, I have many undetermined 
species, — some of which are probably new ; — particu- 
larly one from the high lands between Flint and Chata- 
hoochee rivers: foliis ovalibus, obtusis. This is a small 



154 

shrub of 3 or 4 feet in height ; the leaves very broad, 
and the racemes very long. Of those that you speak, I 
am not certain. 

My Viburnum scarulcjis turns out to be Decumariabar- 
bara ! Not having an opportunity of seeing it, cither in 
flower or Beed, I made the mistake: but Mr. John Li 
Conte, who ia familiar frith this plant, has put me right. 
Hence the ity of not being in too much of a 

hurry. Le Co: | B thai the D. barbara, and sarjnen- 

are the Bame plant. But I have the pleasure of 
giving you a short description of a news] f Eryn- 

gium, which I discovered <>n the 4th of June last; and 
which, after having shown it to Elliott and Li Coi 
I ha\ e called E. U phi*, i think it may be adopted m ith- 
out hesitation. It is N«>. 1 177 in the p that has 

been lost It was not completely in Bower until the 
16th of June, — when I ascertained it to be Eryngium, 

and Bent it to Mr. Ellio ; 1 it has this day I 

further confirmed by .Mr. Le Con it., — a - no 

doubt <■!' its being Eryngium, l i: 

ruulis ramotUStmUSt t>nui^. ihus, 

inti grUy caulinu triloi 

bus* Thia plant, as far a- I Tom 8 to 

lo inches in height: the leaves are very variable, — 
some of the lower ones being oval, and others ovi 
above these, they arc tobate, th< lanceolate; at 

the extremity, ternate, linear, and extremely small. — 
The ftower-heads are very small; but so numerous, that 
i at first proposed to call it polycepkalum. The ftoweia 
are extremely minute, — appearing first of a white, but 
changing when full blown, to a blue color. I have, be- 
side this, all the species which you have enumerated in 
your Catalogue. Should you, from this description, 

[•This is the plant afterwards published, by Elliott, as E. gra- 
cilc, Baklw. It is now, E. Baldicinii, Sprengel, DC. Ton. & 
Gray.] 



155 

adopt it as an Eryngium, you can choose for a specific 
name, either tenue, or polyccphalum. I prefer the former, 
in consequence of its being so much less than any of 
the other species, that arc known. It is found in wet 
situations, near fresh water; but whether annual, or 
biennial, I have not ascertained. 

Mr. Abbott has not been in Savannah for more than 
a year. He resides in Scriven county; but whether he 
continues his drawings, or not, I cannot ascertain : nor 
do 1 know where to find the work you mention, pub- 
lished by Smith. No doubt it requires revision; as 
Abbott's drawings, though beautiful, are generally 
very defective. * * * * * * 

I continue my Calendarium Florae : 
November 7. Tripterella coerulea still in flower. 

44 15. Hamamelis Virginia*: the leaves not yet 
fallen. Utricularia ceratophylla. Ge- 
rard ia aphylla, Le Conte. Lobelia eras* 
siucula : a variety of this has white 
flowers. Lycopus Americanus. Poly- 
gala lutea. G7i iron iff, fl ore albo: this, 
Le Conte says, is the true C. paniculate. 
4k 16. Aster concolor in full bloom, on Satilla 
river, — and near six feet high. * * 
December 16. Inula Mariana, and a number of garden 
plants, in flower at the garden of M. 
Montelos, on Sapelo Island: although 
we have had hard frost. 
I have thus concluded my imperfect Calendarium, for 
1814. 

Immediately upon my arrival here, I had the pleasure 
to meet with Mr. J. Le Conte. We are together every 
day, examining specimens, &c. He has authorized me 
to inform you, that he will write to you, as soon as he 
returns to his habitation, near Riceborough, Liberty 
county. 



156 

I would attend to some more of your queries, — but 
every thing remains still in confusion. As I have, fa 
a Surgeon to assist me, I anticipate more leisure than I 
have yet had, in Georgia: which! hope to d 
Botany. 

Of Castama nana, I have some doubt, — a^> I cannot 
find any one who has seen it. I did meet with a \ 
humble oik, both in Georgia and Florida, — which I sup- 
posed might be nana. It differed, principally, in having 
broader leaves: but I wish to examine it again, before I 
decide with certainty. Hoping that your health may be 

lerved, I remain unchangeably, I 

W. B. 



DR. MrilLl.NBERG TO DR. BALHV. 

LmOMfer, January 90, I8U. 

Dear Bib : Qp si wai my pleasure on n ceh ii 

;• this year, dated January 8, from Savannah : 

And may it be an earnest for many ether letters, — if 

Providence continues our lives. My time will soon be 
gone; — that, I Feel: But let u> labor, while we li\ 
be useful as tar as we can. 

Much was 1 pleased to hear that Mr, John Lb Come 
was at Savannah. I have heard how indefatigable he 
is; and ii* he favors me with hifl C ndence, it will 

indeed be a great favor to me, — although the writing is 
sometimes much against my Ik ad. We can take time, 
and not write too much at once, and finish a letter by 
degrees. Very glad I will be to hear what observations 
you made upon American plants, by your mutual con- 
ferences. Dried and imperfect specimens must be 
looked at, again and again ; and truth will be found, by 
many gucssings and trials, at last. In particular, I w ill 
be glad to hear what you have found in the different 



157 

genera of your numerous Asteres and Solidarities. Sel- 
dom we see a good specimen from a distance. By 
comparing many specimens, from Europe and all parts 
of America, with my garden plants, I know a great 
number: but, still, many remain uncertain. 

Other genera are also uncertain, with me. Whatever, 
amongst your plants, you do not find in my Catalogue, 
pray inform me. Your names will be very acceptable; 
and they shall remain sacred to me, — whenever I am 
able to give a new edition. So, Eryngium tenue, and 
others: Mr. Le Co^te's Gerardiaaphylla, — if I only had 
a description, or specimen. The Chironia paniculata I 
have from Dr. Brickell, and others. It differs from 
chlorantha, Pursh, or my venosa, sufficiently. Chironia is 
a difficult genus ; and has been latterly named Sabbatia. 

Of our mutual and valuable friend, Mr. Elliott, I 
have heard nothing since my last letter, November 14. 
Probably he is too much engaged, and I ask too much. 
His other engagements are too numerous. I am almost 
afraid I shall not see his promised Catalogue. When 
the year is past, he will find so many queries, and diffi- 
culties, that the work will not be finished. Let us give 
what we have, of Plantae hue usque cognitae, and leave 
the rest for a future day. In the southern States, I have 
left a great number, for my valuable friends. To you, 
my dear friend, I look for emendations and additions. 
Let Mr. Le Co^te, and others join. Runs, creeks, and 
rivers join, — and are then strong. 

The Pruni are very difficult. I should suppose the 
Prunus Virginiana, — different from our common sero- 
tina, — will be found in Georgia. The P. pubescens, of 
my Catalogue, is a Georgia plant ; Jlor. racemosis. A 
leaf of every Prunus, numbered, — with Racem. or Pe- 
duac. solit. — would give much information: and so a 
grown leaf of Salix, with a short note,— -Jlor. praecoc. or 
coetaneis, — or scrotinis,— would do, until better times. 

14 



158 

Mr. Oemler informed mc, that Abbott had made 
drawings of plants for the Savannah Library company. 
Have you seen and examined them ) I remember what 
pleasure I had, from Georgia drawings, — and how use- 
ful they were to me. An enumeration of Abbott's 
drawings, would be very pleasing. Mr. Elliott l 
me the numbers of Abbott's and Smith" etiuii, in 

the Library of Columbia, South Carolina. 

Mr. Oehleb'a I g is a m< llent collection. — 

It was a pleasing sight to me; but the time was 
short. O! do look again, and mention what you have 
seen, native. Many of the Cknrfi ibly will 

see near Savannah. My collection fit)l 
by my son, and my son-in-law, Schmidt, — is pretty 
large. 1 exped a v ry genera] coDeotion i I dens 

from Sweden, — which sent off, Mr, r In- 

tended to send all he had, to Mr. Dah 
who no* has published a number of A 
M. Lamotobux, haa begun Ihe How little has 

hhh( 11 done, in N, Am 

logue. Probably many are ue* 

STour OaUndarium gave me much lion. The 

Phanerogamous plant dow finish 

furnish a course of Cryptogamous plai see the 

difference, during winter ! The time of putting off the 
cnhjptra, or opening the operculum, would I 
As the Filic illy alive during winter, they 

would be a pastime, I wish to h< 

southern plants: as Ophioglossum bulbotum, Yittciria an- 
guttifronty Blechnum terrulatum, AtpUnium I mtum 
nigrum, Acrostichum aurcum, PtUotum Floridanum; in 
particular, a better specimen of 7 /</, and Pore //</, 

with fructification. 

In your Calcndarium, I mark as desiderate your 
names, for future specimens, — when better times c> 
or for a corner in one of your letters. 



159 

Aovejyiber 15. Inula argcntea, Liatris lanceolata, Ger- 
ardia aphylla, Le Conte, Lobelia crassiuscula, var. alba 
Eupatorium angustifolium. 

November 10. CoUinsonia — purp. Dccumaria — is it caps. 
7.— 10 locular is /— Elliott ia— -what fructification] My 
specimen bad. 

Lately Dr. Mitchill has written much on American 
Fishes. Long ago, I made a Catalogus of our Susque- 
hanna and Lancaster Fishes. We are very poor, — and 
have few more than 20 species. I have compared 
Catesby, and Broussonet, — and find but one or two, 
known to us. Will you give me leave to put a few 
questions to you 1 

1. Which of the American Fishes do you find com- 
mon to the sea, at St. Mary's, and the Delaware] 

2. Which, in inland water, peculiar to Georgia, ac- 
cording to Bartram's names] The synonyms of other 
places would be very pleasing. 

If you have Bartram's Travels, now, any explana- 
tion of his names would be an acquisition to me. Ixia 
coelestina, Bartr. has not been discovered by any other 
Botanist; and is much wished for. So Gnaphalium lu- 
teum, at Savannah, from Dr. Brickell: and Phalangium 
— two species — croceum, and virgatum. 

Since my last letter, I have had several letters from 
other parts ; of which I mention the chief, to inform 
you what we, in our botanical circle, are doing: — 
December 6. The first snow. 

11 15. A collection of plants from Dr. William 
Barton, for nomenclature — from No. 
37 — 137. Asteres, Solidagines, Eupa- 
toria : among them, 10 from gardens : 
nothing new. 
11 21. A collection of N. York plants from Mr. 
Green D. Beck; No. 1-212. — Among 
them, Raphanus Raphanistrum, C. 



100 

Scutellaria galericufata, Lamium pur- 
pureum, Chrysanthe mum Jlore purpureo : 
nothing else Dew. 

January 10. From Jacob Bigelow, No. 4S1 — 160 — 
nothing new. 

A gentleman (Geobge Ticraom,) intends to tn 
through France and Germany, u b lover of science. I 
give letters along, to BfiAUYO >r»EL, 

Schwaegerichen, &c, with my catalogue, and a num- 
ber of dubious plants, — chiefly Fucus, O . Mtijci, 
Umbellatae, and Gfamififf, — in hopes of hearing some- 
thing certain. 

Probably our Dr. B. s. Baei \t March, . 

Intends to return ^ Worember, from Germany, Fra 
and England, — with the ri< the old world, and all 

the information he can c< >U< \ 

Mr. C( . — who has been from New 

England to Kentucky, with i . — re- 

turns also to Prance. How much will he hear, in ■ 
short time, hy such united labors of Botani 
Naturalists I 

I have written so much, that r an ofhai ing tired 

you. Remember my hest respects to .Mrs. Baldw 
Mr. Oemler, and, when you write, to Mr. Le COB 
and favor me soon with your continued observation-. 

I remain unchangeably, sir, your most obedient 
sincere friend, II. M. 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. Ml'IILENEERG. 

Savannah, February 13, 1815, 
Dear Sir: Your letter of January 20, was duly re- 
ceived ; but our daily expectation of an attack from the 
enemy— and the confusion thereby produced— prevent- 
ed an immediate reply. Beside attending to my profes- 



161 

sional duties, I have been laboring on the fortifications, 
which, through the unremitted industry of the citizens, 
and others, are now nearly completed; and will, I hope, 
render this city safe from the grasp of a foe, who has 
ceased to respect the usages of civilized warfare. Mr. 
Le Conte has, almost ever since I wrote last, been em- 
ployed as an engineer; but informed me, a few days 
ago, that he should embrace the first leisure moment to 
write to you. 

Having just ascertained that Mr. Benjamin Trevett, 
late of the U. S. Navy, sets out to-morrow, in a chaise, 
for Washington,— I will once more venture to send you 
a small packet, directed to the care of Dr. Ott; hoping 
that it will not share the fate of the former one. * * 

1520. Poly gala. This, Le Conte says, is the true 
eoryrjibosa, Mx. eymosa, Walt, and different from 1013, 
which he calls praealta. They are certainly distinct. 

1531. a itiana. This varies considerably. It is 
sometimes much branched: I have even seen it sup- 
porting 23 flowers. ***** 

Le Conte has just been here, looking over the speci- 
mens I have put up — and renewing his promise to write 
to you. Mr. Oemler's Algae shall be farther attended 
to; but I am sorry to inform you, that many of them 
are rotten, for want of care. 

Mr. Le Conte supposes that Brickell's Gnaphalium 
luteum was an Inula! I have a G. nodosum, which is 
probably new, from Florida. The specimens are so 
large, that I cannot send any now. Of the numbers that 
you wish information upon, I will endeavor to satisfy 
you as soon as possible. To some of them, I have ven- 
tured to give names, — all which shall be submitted to 
you. Of Coreopsis, I have several doubtful: To one, I 
have given the name of teretifolia from the singular 
form of the leaf. 

Most of my Grasses, and two volumes of Phanero- 

11* 



1« 

gamia, have been left at St. Mary's, with Mr. Gibson; 

and I have not yet heard whether they hare fallen into 

the hands of the enemy. The best part of our furniture 

was likewise left, and may have been destroyed, — as 

we have understood, in general, that no res] 

paid to private property, 

I am, dear sir, most sincerely vour friend, 

W. B. 



PR. MUHLENBEK-. To 1»R. BALDWttT. 

laneatti •. V 10, 181 

Dbab Sit: : Mylasl tetter to you wa- 90, 

in answer to your i table on< 3d. Since 

that time, you have had hard times, at Savannah. God 
be praised that (he danger wei . and that peace at 

Last was made. I fell for you, En particular, — and 
our friends at St. Mary's, and Cumberland : And d 
begin to wish anxiously to hear from j n. My 

friend, Mr. Zacch&us Coi Philadelphia, opp< 

Christ ( Ihurch, ha - d me kindly to n 

forward any packet for me, from the Southward ; and I 

hav desired him to l< r any thing coming for me, 

and add his observations. Be has an excellent botani- 
cal eye, — and ua a second Baldwjh m IMr. Ste- 
phen Elliott I had no Letter since last November. Do 

you know any thing from him, — or of Mr. John Le 

CONTE. 

Although I have put too many queries to you, in my 
last letter, I will add some mure for a future day. Take 
your own time. Every new observation will give me 
great satisfaction. Specimens will be in particular 
pleasing — and seeds: 

1. Of any plant not mentioned in my Catalogue. 

2. Such as were sent in imperfect specimens. 



163 

3. Gramina, CaJamaria, Aster, Solidago, Primus, Lia- 
tris, Planera. 

4. If possible, let the Genera be together in natural 
classes : Phancrogamia, Cryptogamia, Frutices, Her- 
baceac, Gram in a. 

5. If you give me leave to choose, I prefer some of 
those mentioned in your Calendar ium : Jvncus mariti- 
77ius, Trifolium pumilum, Asclepias fragrans, Ruellia par- 
vijlora, Psoralca si mplici folia, Galega ternata, Gerardia 
aphylla, Liatris Janeeolata, ColHnsonia — every species, 
except Canadensis, — with the time of flowering. 

I have lately received some notice of Pursh's Flora, 
published in England. I anxiously wish to see it. He 
has examined, in London, beside Clayton's, the Her- 
barium of Fraser, — with Walter's plants. * * * * 
Probably, of many dubious plants, we will now get a 
certain nomenclature. However, he has left a great 
number to future investigation. All Cryptogamia, ex- 
cept Filiees, are left untouched. 

Quite unexpectedly, a long lost packet has arrived 
from you, directed to Dr. Ott, at Georgetown, — con- 
taining numbers 1472 — 1510. The plants were in pretty 
good order, and I thank you sincerely for them. They 
are, as far as I can judge at their first examination : 

1474. Caladium speciosum, Elliott; but I cannot dis- 
tinguish it from Arum Yirginicum. * * * 

11-9. Centunculus — hardly distinct from the Euro- 
pean. 

1491. Trifolium Carolinianum : how does it differ 
from your pumilum ? * * * * * 

The Panicxi, sent in letters, are very dubious to me ; 
and this genus deserves particular notice. The Nyssae, 
described by Michaux, I am also uncertain about, — for 
want of the female plants. Have you a real Nyssa to- 
mnxtosa'! Your 1500 is only N. candicans. I have no 
Syssa, alive, figured by Wangenheim as N. dentieulata. 



164 

Your numbers, formerly mentioned, arc still belonging 
to the Adversaria. * • . • • 

Your Carolina Asters*, and ShUdag[ines t you will not 
forget to show to Mr. Le Conte, — who baa examined 
the Americas species with great accuracy. 1 : 
many from Eur llected in Botanical 1 tardens ; but 

still, of the described, some ate wanting in my li 

arium. 

Hare yon determined to remain in Qeorgia, or may 
expect to see you return ? 

My health has been pretty good ; but writing is rather 
troublesome to my head. Bate, therefore, patii 
with me; and forgive the short tetters which only I 

writ*'. 

I remain with unchangeable o, and by best res- 

i> to Mrs, Baldwin, 
sir, your most obedient and sincere friend, 

II. M. 

F. S. Spring has just begun; but only three Phanero- 
gamia have appeared in Bower: — Alsine media t Poa 
annua, and Euphorbia - ria. 



OB. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLE> 

\ •// 12, 1815. 

Dear Sir: On my arrival in this city, a fe¥ ago, 

from St. Mary's, l had the pleasure to n let- 

f the L6th nit. which, as usual, has given q ; 

p] asure. [am glad thai the lost packet! und, 

and that yon arc interested with some of the specimens. 
But I find that my letter of the 18th of February, which 
accompanied a packet forwarded to Washington by Mr. 
Trevett, had not come to hand. I should have written 
again, long before this time, had it not been for the dif- 
ficulty of the times. I have been several weeks at 



165 

Mary's, on business, since the enemy evacuated that 
place ; and have been other ways unexpectedly occu- 
pied. A good opportunity of forwarding a packet to 
Philadelphia, by my friend Mr, Shoemaker, has just 
been lost, in consequence of my long absence to the 
southward ; and Mr. Elliott left my house only three 
days before my arrival : so that I have been much dis- 
appointed in not seeing him. But as peace has again 
blessed our shores, the opportunity of sending packets, 
I hope, will be frequent. I have not made up my mind 
to return to the northward, — nor shall I determine any 
thing until I hear from the Navy Department. This 
southern climate has been, thus far, so congenial to my 
health, that I shall perhaps return to St. Mary's; or, 
should I leave the service of the U. States, go still 
farther south. But I desire much to see my friends in 
the north ; and, should I receive a furlough, I may pay 
them a summer visit. 

Of Abbott's drawings, in the library, I find the fol- 
lowing numbers, — many of which are imperfect, as 
well as the numbers deficient. * * * * 

261. Gerard ia Afzelia. This was No. 30, in my draw- 
ings: but it cannot be a Gerardia, as it is truly Pent an- 
drous. It ought to be made a new genus. * * * 
Caladium speciosum, Elliott. I hope I shall soon have it 
in my power to decide upon this plant, — as, what I take 
to be your Arum Yirginicum, I have found here. * * * 

\Yith respect to the Insects, that are drawn upon these 
plants, I do not feel qualified to give you a correct Cata- 
logue ; and Mr. Oemler does not appear to be familiar 
with them. I shall review them all again, when more 
at leisure. Mrs. B. can assist me: but the cares of a 
family have induced her to neglect very much her favo- 
rite pursuit. ****** 

Among other specimens of plants which Oemler 
brought from Virginia, I find Echium vulgare. Can it 
be native 1 



166 

It has not been in my power to make out a Calenda- 
rium of the Mosses, during the late winter of alarms, — 
as I was mostly confined within the lines. From the 
observations [ have made, the greatest number i 
are in perfection in this climate, the latter end of Janu- 
ary, and the beginning of February. Some of the ge- 
nera may be found in j> d for several i 

as Trichostomum pallidum^ — which is now, and was in 

January, in complete perfection. 1 shall mention a 
few, along with the continuation of my ( trium. — 

Of PUio s, I still have very few. 
1815. Jan, B, Ba ion i in flower. 

11 18. Dug up, at the Fortifications, b 

Snake, and lizard [La . | Iiullaris], 

— both alive. The Mercury, in I 

renheit, 58.° 
January 24. Altine media in flower. 
February 11. 8and I ri$ has put forth its 

44 is (• nun nitidum (yellow Jasmine) 

flowering. 
44 10, Viola cucullaii:. J fermannia. 
44 25. i : - Canad u > ; Harchantia; Ilypnum; 

Finnan:: /.-</, — all in perfection. — 

The young sii Poih P 'kytolacoa 

decandraj fit for the table. 

44 26. Amy gdal u$ Persica; Rubu* procumhens. 
March 3. Sonchus oh rami:. 

44 5. Trillin ; Veronica pcregrina. 

44 7. Amaryllis Atamasco ; Pyrus arbutijolia. 

44 10. Chryeogonum Virginianum; Acer rubmm* 

44 18. Corydalis lutea in flower and seed, on 
Cumberland Island. * * • 

44 20. St. Mary's: Pinguicula pumila ; Brous- 
sonetia papyrifera; Plantago Yirginica ; 
Samolus Yalerandi; Datura Stramonium. 



r arc) 


I 22. 


ii 


24. 


ii 


27. 



167 

Polygala lutea ; Cymbidium pulchellurn. 
Olea Amcrica?ia ; Andro??icda ferruginea. 
Cornus Florida ; Anona parvijlora ; Sal- 
via lyrata ; Anona triloba; Yaccinium 
arboreum. 
11 31. Melia AzcJaracli. 
I have also the pleasure to inform you, that on the 
25th of February, I met with the Targionia, floating on 
the water, — but without any appearance of fructification. 
It now exhibits something like fructification. What is 
the Porella, that you speak of! I have no recollection 
of it. 

1491. Trifolium Carolinianiun. Probably the same as 
my pumilum: But my pumilum is caulis erectus, and 
small,— perhaps owing to the poverty of the soil. 
******* 
1508. Buchnera — always august (folia. Le Come sup- 
poses only a variety of Anu ricaria. 

I found my grass s, and other specimens, left in St. 
Mary's, undisturbed by the enemy. My household fur- 
niture, — with the exception of a large looking-glass, and 
some other furniture where I had kept the U. States 
medical stores, — was all safe. The looking-glass they 
broke to pieces for amusement ! I found the city al- 
most a desolation. It had been plundered of public and 
private property to the amount of near half a million of 
dollars. A great deal of private property, not taken 
away, was wantonly destroyed. At Dungeness, on 
Cumberland, the devastation was comparatively trifling. 
About 300 lemon trees, and some fig trees, that inter- 
fered with the fortifications of the enemy, were cut 
down. The valuable sugar works of Mr. Spalding, on 
Sapelo, remain safe. 

On the 16th of February, I wrote to Dr. Barton, — 
but have not yet received any answer. Pray, has he 
gone to Europe! 3Ir. Le Conte left Savannah, for 



168 

Riccborough, about the middle of last month, and I 
have not heard from him since. He told me that, im- 
mediately upon his return, he would write to you. 1 
shall visit him, shortly, — as I have engaged to assist him 
in putting up a loo logue of Bouthern sp< 

for a German Botanist, iem, N. Carolina 

name I cannot Q< ct), who has written for 

them. 
Through the blessing of a kind Providence, ire 

all in good health; and Mrs. B with me in wish- 

ing for you that distinguished blessing. Th may 

yet live many years, ia the anxioiu wish of your 
sincere and affectionate friend, W, B. 

P. B. The day on which your letl tick 

16, 1 was on board of 1 1 iy to 

St Mary's. Notwithstanding th< - at- 

ed, off V ■ I dand, b] gun Bhip belon 

to Elia Britannic M : — the i nder of which, 

although we had politely infoamed him whou 

itened to Bink ua ; and f .1 ahot int 

A musket ball passed within a few inch tiling 

master I and w I Iy aimed at 

him. This insult to our Bag ww offered by one : 
tholomsw, who commanded th< /.' Bomb Ship; 

and who, when he found (although h: la so 

vastly Buperior,) we could not be bullied w Itfa impunity, 
made an awkward apology, and we separated. (En- 
closed i- a little Targumia ! ) 



DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

MMM&, April 27, 1815. 

Dear Sir : Along with this you will receive the fol- 
lowing specimens: 

1551. Ludwigia. This, Mr. Elliott calls virgata. How 



169 

does it differ from alterni/olia? It is sometimes catdis 
ramosus. 

1558. Rosa laevigata, Mx! Cultivated here, and call- 
ed "Cherokee Rose." In Charleston, it is best known 
by the name of "Nondescript Rose." When in Charles- 
ton, I was informed that it had been introduced there by 
John Bartram,* as a Nondescript, many years ago : 
hence called non djscripta. It is, in my estimation, the 
most beautiful of all the Roses. It runs and climbs to a 
great extent : and when in full bloom, the flowers are so 
numerous, that, at a little distance, they appear like a 
perfect white sheet. Mr. Elliott has made use of it 
for hedging, on his plantation, on Ogochee. * * 

I am still often at a loss to know what are the plants 
in your Catalogue, for want of the descriptions. If you 
would be so good as to note the authors, for such of my 
specimens as are not found in Willdenow, it would be 
a great assistance to me: and when not in your Cata- 
logue, please to inform me, — as the same plant is often 
known by different names. * * * * 

A few days ago, I received a letter from Dr. Barton, 
in which he informs me that he was on the eve of going 
to Europe, for his health. 

Mrs. B. has been trying her hand at drawing the Aza- 
leas. Copies shall be sent to you, if you desire it. 

With unchangeable esteem, I remain, my dear sir, 
Your sincere friend, W. B. 

P. S. Asarum foetidum, mihi. I found this on Flint 
river. The flowers arc extremely foetid, and more than 
twice as large as the Virginicum, or Canadense. The 
smell of the flower, when recent, is as disagreeable as 
flesh in a state of putrefaction. 

[•This tends to confirm the opinion, expressed by Toreet and 
(mi at, in the Flora of N. America, Vol. 1, p. 4G2.] 

15 



170 

DR. BALDWIN TO DR. MUHLENBERG. 

Savannah, May 7, 1^15. 

Dear Sir: I w y on on the '27th ultimo, and I 

tbeleti Dg with apacketito Philadelphia, in the 

schooner Economy, Ca] redirected tolh€ rare 

i i Zi ra. It baa since happened through 

the viciaeitudi d thia * orM 

eats, that, ii Bleed of returning either North or South, 
I go to Bermuda along w itfa Thomas Spauldik 
I l#mmi8aioner of the [Jn 

obtaining property thai has been carri by our 

lata en< ni\ . contrary to the 1 L r " 

i this mi-Mi. A- well i 
muda, . the i \b.\ anna, — and 

perhaps some other places. v. 
^ail to-mono* ; and I am hurrying to 
. — haying had i >rt notfc 

i was in great bo] 
.iii-d : But, h the time la >•■ ia- 

tien to ana tould you think pr 

letter of instructiona to tne at Kingston, Jamais 
whither I suppose are shall repair, after remaining 
Borne time in Bermuda. We hop tplisfa : 

voyage in about three months, Ajb Mis. B. will remain 
here until my return, y( or i my late l * t t ■ 

may be Bent t inah, aa usuaL w r I can do 

Bbtany, while among the Isian U be done, — 

and the result made known to you as early as possible. 
Hoping that you continue in the enjoyment ilth, 

I remain, my dear sir, your <_ ver all riend, 

YV. B. 



171 

DR. MUHLENBERG TO DR. BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, May 11, 1815. 

Dear Sir: 1 was very happy to receive your letter of 
the 12th of April last, and to hear of your health. The 
other letter you mention, of the 13th of February, by the 
way of Washington, and Mr. Trevett, has not come. 
Probably the packages by vessels, and addressed to 
Zaccheus Collins, at Philadelphia, will come safer and 
quicker. I had written to Mr. Stephen Elliott, April 
10, but have heard nothing of him since. Is he returned 
to Charleston] 

The Rev. Mr. Van Vleck, my friend at Salem, has 
been at Lancaster, and will return next month to Salem ; 
and will be very glad to get some Southern plants, — 
which, he mentioned, are more scarce with them, than 
the plants of the Flora Yirginic-a Gronovii. 

His companion, Von Schweinitz, has sent 56 crypto- 
gamous plants — chiefly Fiuigi — with his own names, 
named in a work printed in Germany. Some are new 
to me ; — and others known to me, but hitherto not 
named in my Catalogue. He will be an excellent cor- 
respondent, for cryptogamous plants. Doctor Persoon 
informs, in a late letter to me, dated in February, 1815, 
that he had sent me his nomenclature in a former letter, 
to Dr. Barton ; — which, unluckily, has never come to 
my hands, — as several others, under cover to the Doctor. 
He is now gone to France. May success attend him ! 
and may he return to enrich Botany, for the lovers of 
science in general. 

Should you pay a visit to our northern climate, do not 
forget us, at Lancaster. I will be very happy to see 
you, and compare notes. Mr. Collins will also be 
anxious to see you. He is a most excellent Botanist. — 
I have a promise to see him at Lancaster some time in 
June. The Philadelphians are much pleased with the 



172 

study of Botany, and have a number of lectures. Mr. 
Correa de Shmla reads lectures with great applau 

Mr. Ls baa promised something to oar (forth 

Carolina friends ; and, by your la>t letter, you \\ ill hi 
an opportunity to sec his collection, and 
observations with yours. Remember 

to him, — and add my wishes to set :ts f 

not kDOWn in I Ivania. 

Mr. JVkmi ha- n-.t returned from England; nor has 

his Fk lived in Otir part-. A m- 

parod the Herbaria i f the P lu- 

cidationsof \V / /, — whibhIlon( In- 

ieed, an American new Edition of Walter, with £ 

nonyms WOUld be a greal acquisition: and who can 

give such explanation! I ath et n 

Const. II, itiMi) | 

For the continuation i < >;», [ thank J 

rinoerely. [fit I neh 

will al .v. # * 

What l- r i ■ **, BricEell I The w 1 

desern tieular Porsfls, L. and Dillon. I 

tako only for a Jungernmnnia* • * * I 
1608, Ls dichotom .■, W\.— - Kfietie, Walter, beii 

older nam I in m\ I I 

it would be better to keep both names. \v« 

Dr :'i/m il> nticulatum at the Su-(jinhanna. Spe- 

ciosum, Pumh, Kfl larger, — con db Ohio; but 1 

oevld never distinguish it sufficiently from Virg mianum, 

foliis acuminat is, OTguU serrai \ The third 

comes from I nd that I * m 

( Prasium / Walter). I wish you to compar Witt I 
three sp 

When you have seen Mr. Le Conts's Herbarium, ft ■ 
will oblige me much by informing mc of his nan; 
He has an Epilobium lm wigwhm . What may this be I — 
Persoon informs me, in his last letter, that nothing 



173 

the Species Plant arum, Willd. has been printed, after 
Filices. The Musci were left in manuscript. Messrs. 
Schwaegerichen & Floerke were engaged to finish the 
Mosses and Lichens. The former has written the sup- 
plementa on Hedwig, — and he has generally my speci- 
mens, sent long ago to him. Floerke is well known to 
me ; — a good Lichenographer. Persoon had the offer 
to finish the Fungi and Algae; but is uncertain whether 
he will accept. He has about 300 specimens of Fungi, 
sent by me, — and Confervae, and Fuci, as far as I could 
find them. His names to my specimens have not come 
to my hands. Should they arrive, I will give them 
according to our old numbers. 

My Calendar ium % this year, shows little difference 
from other years. The Morus alba has just begun to 
open the flowers full; now all frost is gone, — and not 
before. — I will give- you a list, as they began this year: 
March 7. Alsine media. Poa annua. 
44 16. Hydrocotyle bipinnata. 
44 23. Viola odorata. Salix rubra, C. 
44 28. Iris- Per sica, C, Crocus vernalis, C. 
44 31. Tim Martins. 
April 2. Hyacinthus, C K 

44 7. Ribe* spircosissima, West America. Car ex 
peduncularis. Amygdalus Persica. 
8.. Arabis bulbosa,Jl. violacea. Clupea alosa ap- 
pears. 
"• 11. Fumaria Cucullaria. 
44 - 12. Pyrus Botryapium. Oats sown. Plantago 

cordata. 
44 13. Thalictrum dioicum. Mitella diphylla. 
44 14. Glechoma hederarsa. Prunus Cerasus. Thlas* 

pi Bursa Pustoris. 
44 16. Prunus domestica, C. Pyrus communis, C. 
44 17* Trillium sessile. 

44 18. Sambucuspubens. Leontodon. Fritillaria y C. 

15* 



174 

April 19. Fragaria. 

" 20. Viola rostrata. Trolliur. Dodccathcon. 
44 21. Malus,C. Viola obliqua, palmai < mllaria 
tnajalis^C Chclidonium maj . 1) iria. 
Yinca. 
44 23. I nica per> 

44 25. Calth i. E ythmnium. Claytonia. Rtinun- 

culus rrp'W . 
4 * 28. Verbena Aubletin. 
44 29. A / 

May 3. Seandix dm Veronica ttrpyliifolia^ ar- 

ret \ / 

■. el at • 
> E tkorbia h . P /</. 

44 7. Erii crUtata. 
44 8. /. 

44 10. M tAo. Trifolium 

The official b ,— which, 

rather too much ou ne, — biodei adding moi 

May you j>. 1th, and n your 

faithful friend, Mj inir. 

Affectionately 1 i and >m- 

ind, 

HENRY MUHL1 LG.* 



DR. BALDWIN TO Wfc. MUHLENBI 

. Ber . w ; ii. 1815, 
Demi Sift: We reached this little spot in ti. 

[*Thii ia the from Dr. M 

— and is Etmong the latest, if not the last, erer written, l>> that dis- 
tinguished Botanist and most estimable man : inasmmh as lie died on 
the 23rd of May, 1S15 — only twelv ncnt to the d 

tills.] 



175 

ocean, on the 19th inst. after a passage of nine days, — 
in which nothing worthy of notice occurred. 

I have not had much leisure to Botanize; and many 
of the small Islands that constitute this group contain, of 
shrubby plants, hardly anything but " Cedar* ( Juni- 
perus Barbadensis !J, and the "Wild Sage" ( Lantana 
odorata). These abound throughout all the Islands; 
and the former constitutes the principal value of the land, 
here, — as scarcely anything is cultivated. The main 
Island is more rich, — and contains of spontaneous 
growth, the Papaw, Calabash tree, Celt is occidentalism Cat- 
licarpa Americana, Viburnum, Andromeda, Ascyrum, 
Ckamaerops Palmetto (which, next to the "Cedar," is the 
most valuable, for the manufacture of hats), Rhus radi- 
cans, Ampelopsis quinqucfolia, — with some others un- 
known to me. The Marine plants, that I have seen, 
are mostly found on the Sea Islands of Georgia; — as the 
"Samphire" ( Salsola ? ) Cakile maritima, Buphthalmum 
frutescens, Zapania nodi flora, kc. Among the native an- 
nual and biennial plants, I find Anagallis arvensis, Sal- 
via, Sisyrinchium Bermudianum, Arenaria serpyllifolia, 
Alsine media, Asclepias Curassavica, Verbascum Thapsus, 
M>:dicago sativa, M. lupulina, Plantago major, P. lanceo- 
lata, Plantago, with lanceolate woolly leaves ; Verbena 
Jamaicensis? this is partially shrubby; Sonchus olera- 
ceus, Leontodon Taraxacum, Ranunculus reptansl Da- 
tura Stramonium, Lamium amplexicaulc, and another spe- 
S nebiera incisa, Sida rhombifolia (shrubby); Eu- 
phorbia, 2 species, Erysimum, Daucus Carota,' Urtica, 
Acalypha Caroliniana, Malva rotundi/olia, and Carolini- 
ana, Bidens, Erigcron Canadense (not in flower), Cactus, 
Lepidium Virginicum, Argemone Mexicana, Oxaliscorni- 
culata, Matricaria? Dichondra Carolinensis, Portulaca 
cea, Atriplex hortensis, Passiflora (not in flower), 
Phytolacca decandra, Salicornia, Ipomaea Bona nox, Sola- 
num nigrum, Galium, Polymnia Uvedalia, eje— Of Gras- 



176 

ses, I have noticed Chloris pctraea, Paspalum, Panirum 
glaucum, and other species; Agrostis Indica^ Digitaria 
sanguinalis, Digitaria Dactylon (Bermuda grass), and 
a few others. — Of Fi m#, then tifu] ; 

a> Pti ri$ i I nium, Adiantum, Osmunda. <\r. of which, 

Bfl well as Phanerogamia ;md Grasses, I shall c 
home, ami transmit to you ss bood aa le, — witl 

the information that I can obtain. 

Of cultivated PlanU , 1 found mock fewer than J 
pected. In Governor Cockbi urdentfc 

oral Datetrcfs; but they have never borne fVuit, — I sup- 
pose for want of the staminate plants. He lias one 
yl/y/y/' tree, — the only one 1 hai tin all the Bermu- 

das. (Trope* and /'/V> succeed well, — but are little at- 
t * -ii*l' * * 1 t<». i ha tree, which tb . is a 

7i</Hrr; hut [cannot distinguish it from tin- cultivated 
one. It is found, however, like the ( ; i, in the Islands. 

I //><> ;irc said tu «1 well. Tin- ( >li\ i > i 

EuropaeaJ grows large, — but is barren. There a] 
few of the Pride of Chios trees (Mdia AseJanscftJ, — and 

they arc still Bowering. 

Circumstances ha urred which prevent our 

ing to Jamaica, fee. and to-morron we intend sailing 

for Savannah. 

With great esteem, I remain, dear sir, 

four sincere friend, W. B. 

F. S. I send this via Alexandria, in the brig Eliza; 

and hope that yen w ill receive it in good time. 



DR. BALDWIN TO FREDERICK AUGUSTUS MUHLENBERG, M. D. 

Savannah, June 28, 1815. 
Dear Sir: On my arrival in Charleston, S. C. fr<>m 
Bermuda, I received the mournful intelligence of the 
death of your venerable father: and after reaching my 



177 

place of abode, in this city, a few days after, I had the 
melancholy satisfaction to find a letter from him, dated 
the 11th of May, — which forever closed a correspond- 
ence that had been to me a source of the most interesting 
pleasure. I now, my dear sir, solicit the correspond- 
ence the so/?, — in whom I hope I shall find the best sub- 
stitute for the loss of the father. I am the more readily 
induced to make this solicitation, as it appeared to be 
the wish of your father, that you should continue the 
correspondence, when he should be no more. In a let- 
ter which I received from him, dated the 15th of April, 
1814, he informed me that you, having finished your 
Medical education, would assist him in Botany, — and 
recommended you to me, as one with whom I might 
afterwards expect to correspond. 

You will therefore, I know, excuse the liberty I take 
ID thus addressing you; — and inform me in what way I 
can render you any assistance, in the prosecution of the 
study of Bjtany ; — or in the publication of your father's 
posthumous works, — which I presume will be an object 
of your early attention. Messrs. Elliott and Le Conte 
will also lend their aid, if required. 

As I have seen no particulars of the sickness and 
death of your amiable Father, — will you be so good as 
to gratify me with a short account] I published a brief, 
imperfect tribute to his memory, in the Savannah Re- 
publican of the 24th inst., having only seen a short notice 
in a Charleston paper. 

May the lovers of Botany, throughout the United States, 
do honor to his memory by walking in his footsteps! 
He was not only worthy of imitation, for that most 
active zeal and industry, which characterized him the 
Linnaeus of our Country, — but also for that unbounded 
liberality of sentiment, which he uniformly manifested 
towards his contemporaries: and which ought ever to 
distinguish the genuine Christian Philosopher, and Na- 



178 

turalist, from the narrow-minded despot in science, who 
would exalt his own fame even at the expen 
around him. However we must deplore the loss of c 
a character, it is consoling to reflect, that lie attained t<> 
a good old agt % and has hit a name behind which will he 
transmitted al<>nL r with those of I- i, Willdemow, 

and others, to the end <•!' tim< 

Wishing you all happiness, — and h<>j>ii)L r t»> h( 
you Boon,—] am, my dear sir, most respectfully yow 
friend, W. 

P. s. I wrote to your Father from Savannah, the 27th 
April, the 7th .May, and lnou Bermuda the 30th, h 
>urse, were not received in time. 



DR. BALDWIN TO F. A. MUHL1 ., M. D. 

S , 8 t i : '. 181 

Deab Sib: I wrot u on the 28th of June, and as I 

have id no letter, am fearful that min< bave 

mbearried. At all events,] hope > « »n will ttie 

Liberty I take, in troubling you nd tim< 

anxious I bai e been t<> hear firom you, after hai tog cor- 
responded bo long with your excellent Father. But, 
should it not be convenient for you t<> continue tin 
respondence, will you have the goodness to inform me 
of the particulars of your Father's death, — and in what 
manner, and when, will his Botanical works be publisl 
The notices taken of your Father, in the Analectk 
Magazine, and Port Folio, — winch I hav< vedwith 

great pleasure, — are pi oofs of the high estimation In 
which he is deservedly held by his countrymen, 

I continue to make collections of plants; and would 
fain hope to add a little more to your Father's large 
collection. Tray excuse the liberty I take, — who am, 
Dear sir, most respectfully &c, W. B. 



179 

DR. F. A. MUHLENBERG TO DR\ BALDWIN. 

Lancaster, September 19, 1815. 

Dear Sir: On account of absence from Lancaster, for 
a considerable length of time, I had not the pleasure of 
seeing your letter of the 28th of June, until a few days 
previous to this date. 

The distressing event of my father's death, has left 
me almost inconsolable ; and the numbers of papers, and 
letters, which I have been under the necessity of ex- 
amining, has kept my mind in continual anxiety and 
regret. During his lifetime, he frequently observed to 
me, that I should cultivate your acquaintance, and con- 
sider you as a friend ; that he himself had derived great 
advantages from your correspondence ; and that, of all 
his friends, he valued and esteemed you the most. But 
circumstances are changed. As highly as I should esti- 
mate your correspondence, I have not the vanity to 
suppose that my communications could, in any manner, 
be interesting to you, — particularly in the science of 
Botany; — as I am, as yet, but a very young student, — 
my professional avocations demanding the greatest por- 
tion of my time. But, sir, if you would occasionally 
condescend to appropriate a very small portion of your 
time to me, I should forever be indebted to you, — al- 
though there are few prospects of repaying your kind- 
ness, except with gratitude. 

As far as respects my father's posthumous works, 
there is one on the Grasses, which will be published in 
a short time ; perhaps during the winter — at farthest, in 
the spring. It is in the hands of Mr. S. W. Conrad, of 
Philadelphia. The work is not very extensive; but 
will nevertheless form a volume, in octavo, of about 
two hundred and fifty pages. You will find, after its 
publication, that my late father has done justice to your 
research. There is also a Flora Lancastriensis, or a 



180 

vlxrior descriptio of the plants that are found in the 

;hborhood of Lancaster: — a work which, alth< 
it contains not much new matter, would be highly 
fblto tli nt of Botany;— m the description! 

minute, and very i the living 

specimens: What would have been int to the 

Botanist, has be< d inserted Into the wo 

now, and - lenfly without giving my 

filth' r <i it for it. 

As much as I i : it published, (for 

it has be no too long,) j 

with sufficient inducement pub- 

lish it, I believe I shall t until the I G asses 

is finished, i lion it i ■ u ith. 

What would 

k— rath 

which would d< 

and one who i with 1 

man langua| 

, which WOUld :. It b the 

\ \ Plants,— * 

which arc indi. / iter. This no 

doubt, c mtaina much r. 

H although iv 

plieations h 

,l. • * 

the Phil i b( \n Sling to ] it, — 

concerning it. It would certainly be a deaira 

cumstanc ■, to have it in s nt iblic 

could be benefitted by it.* 

During the latter part Of my father's li! 

much predisposed to A He had 

[•The Ifetbaiium suSsoqucntly etBM into tho pofacssi- 
American Philosophical Society, at Phlladfl Aphis, when it now U.] 



181 

of the disease. The predisposition increased, as he ad- 
vanced in age, until the last fatal attack, which put a 
period to his valuable existence. Early in the morning 
of the 23d of May, he felt symptoms of an approaching 
paroxysm : he complained of a difficulty of hearing and 
seeing, which was soon followed by a paralysis of the 
tongue: he soon after became comatose, and remained 
in that state until in the evening of the same day, at 8 
o'clock, when he suddenly expired in a convulsive state. 

He was born November 17, 1753, in New Providence, 
Montgomery county. His father was Henry Muhlen- 
berg,— at that time Minister of the German Lutheran 
Congregation, in Philadelphia. In 1763, he was sent to 
Europe, in order to be educated for the Church, in the 
University of Halle. In 1770, having finished his educa- 
tion, he returned to America. Finding that Botany, in 
North America, displayed a vast field of inquiry, he very 
soon engaged in its study with ardor and perseverance ; 
in which he was assisted by his European friends, Hed- 
wig, Schreber, and others. Whether any thing has been 
done by him for the advancement of Botany, and Sci- 
ence in general, candor may decide. 

I remain, my dear sir, with the greatest esteem, 
Your humble servant, 

F. A. MUHLENBERG. 



DR. BALDWIN TO F. A. MUHLENBERG, M. D. 

Savannah, October 8, 1815. 
Dear Sir: Your letter dated the 19th ult. I had the 
pleasure to receive a few days ago. It gives me much 
satisfaction to find, that, although you are unable to de- 
vote a great portion of your time to the science of 
Botany, a correspondence will be agreeable. 
I, too, am only a student of Botany, and a practitioner 
16 



1*2 

of Medicine; and can only devote a portion, — some- 
times a very small portion — -f my time, to that charm- 
ing science. Hucfa depends upon oui I >f indus- 
try, and tin.' manner in which we 

BOKRfl LAI B, I' LXWIlf, Wll B] . and in. 

•mplished much i a- w ell as I 

in genera] ; and n 
Lionel i t tftedic ; 

But, my d< nd, what be the fati of j 

inclination, win your pursuits in 1. 

be assured, i shall ever esteem it a pleasure to coi 

pond with the SOfl I f HlNBI Ml BLUfBBBO. 

I am glad to hear that your I I le wort 

the Grasses is already in the l f the printer. With 

respect to the publication <»t the / I 
u <>u l«l it publish- 

ing by subscription 1 Tin which OUr lit- 

erals friends, ben . mmend : and I | dent 

that ,i I,: »uld \» >bt aith- 

crn country. I n i >uld cheerfully und< i 

the proposals, and to obtaii This n 

would enable us to compare the pis 
South Carolina with tbosi insylvania; and, i. 

the accuracy with which I know the plants i 
ed, would in ever] point of view, !>■• highly interesting 
, — as well as to th< at ofBotanj in Pennsyl- 

vania. 

The sooner th tillable woi published, the 

BOOnerwill the plagiarisms of European B ts be 

exposed. Th* 1 publication of the last wort you men- 
lion, — which I suppose must be the! ,— might be 
delayed a little longer: — Not longer, however, than it 

may take to prepare it completely for the press, — should 
proper encouragement be given to the preceding works, 

For this work, I would gladly prepare more particular 
descriptions of some plants which your father r 



183 

from me, and adopted as new species. The names of 
a few of them, which I gave in too much haste, I would 
change : for example, Eryngium tenue (see the supple- 
ment to your father's catalogue). Tenue is a correct 
name ; but as there is a foreign E. tenue — a different 
species, — I would call mine, Eryngium poly ccphalum : 
and so of some others, to be noticed another time. 

You are, I presume, sufficiently acquainted with the 
German language, to make the necessary translations: 
and would not Z. Collins answer, for the Botanist, and 
Compiler] 

I highly approve of your resolution to retain the 
Herbarium. ■ * * * * 

Accept my best thanks for the Biographical notices of 
your father, which you have been so good as to give 
me. Any thing relating to him will always be dear to 
my recollection. In May, 1811, — the only time I had 
the pleasure of seeing him, — he gave me a similar ac- 
count of the commencement of his career in life ; with 
some interesting anecdotes of his beginning, and pro- 
gress, in the study of Botany. 

When you have leisure, I shall be happy to hear from 
you. In the mean time I remain, dear sir, with the 
greatest esteem, your sincere friend, 

W. B. 

P. S. Please to present my best respects to Mrs. 
Huffnagle and Mrs. Musser. 



DR. BALDWIN TO F. A. MUHLENBERG, M. D. 

Savannah, April 23, 1816. 

Dear Sir: I expected, before this time, to have heard 

of the publication of your father's work on the Grasses. 

Will you be so good as to inform me how it progresses! 

It will give me great pleasure to receive a copy of it as 



184 

soon as possible. Mr. Elliott is about to publish a 
Flora of South Carolina and Georgia, by subscription, — 
and has, I believe, obtained a great many subscribers. 
Have you seen the work that has been published by 
IVksh, in England ! and in what estimation i^ it 1 
Mr. Nuttall, an English Botanist, who paid us i 
last fall, informed me that it contained aumerou 
Nuttall spoke of publishing ■ new edition of it ; but I 
have not heard from him since he left thJ 
Philadelphia. With esteem I remain, 

If j dear sir, your friend, 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO A. n. LAMBIET, ESQ.. KT OF 

Till ON. 

Sav I J ruary 7, 1-17. 

Bat: four letter of fl FJunei thedmeoo 

\h>- 8th of August l a i a sick 

and continued unable, tor I montl any 

acknowledgment for bo kind and nnex] iTor. 

Jn November, I began to put jrou up some specim 
but before I could finish, the stair of my health — as well 
as urgent business — obliged me to go to St. 

Here I was unexpectedly detained, without any oppor- 
tunity oferen acknowledging the receij I ir letter. 
Haying at last returned in good health, it will afford 
me great pleasure to comply with your r and 
although i may tail to answer your i will 

at least be a punctual correspondent My thank- 
due to Mr. Nuttall, for haying introduced me to your 
notice. That I may be able to reciprocate your favors, 
IS my anxious wish ; and no exertions to do so shall he 
wanting. 

For a beginning, I have put you up 30(> 



185 

be forwarded the first opportunity. In order to obtain 
your observations, I have numbered the specimens, and 
occasionally added a few queries. As some of the 
plants that I now forward, may be already known to 
you, I take the liberty to request that you will freely 
make your comments upon thorn, and correct me when 
you find I am in error. I have many new and doubtful 
plants to send, when our correspondence becomes es- 
tablished. I am chiefly anxious, at present, to investi- 
gate the plants of my native country: but am very 
desirous to ascertain what plants of other countries cor- 
respond with ours. For example, we have Callitriclie 
verna, Gratiola officinalis, Syena fluviatilis, Hottonia pa- 
histris, Lycopus Europaeus, Cerastium vulgatum, C.semi- 
decandrum, C. arve?ise, Isnardia palustris, Nymphaea alba, 
kc. &c. Specimens of these, from Europe, would be 
very acceptable. Some of them, I have no doubt, will 
und, when strictly compared, to be distinct plants. 

Any specimens will be acceptable ; but those from 
the West Indies, and Guiana, would, at this time, be the 
most interesting,— as likely to approach the nearest to 
those of this southern country. 

I have not been so fortunate as to obtain the work of 
Mr. Pursh; and as Mr. Nuttall did notsendme acopy 
from Philadelphia, I presume it was not to be obtained. 
You will therefore greatly oblige me by sending a copy. 

The transactions of the Linnean Society I have seen 
in Ifae Library of this city ; but I shall become a sub- 
scriber, when I return to Wilmington, Delaware, — the 
place of my abode. I accept, with gratitude, your kind 
offer to propose me for a member of the Linnean 
Society. Should I be elected, I can only hope that it 
may be in my power to contribute a mite to that vast 
treasury of Science. 

Any Botanical news will be very acceptable. I shall 
send you a work, now publishing by Mr. Elliott, of 

16* 



Ml 

Charleston, EL Carolina, which will contain some of my 

new plants: also, any other work that may app< 

which will be worth. ince, — along with 

the Botanical Dessi from {].■, water. 

of the specimens, I p not good; but I bt 

to have it in my powei ftO r< m W tin m, before long, — 

and thus be able to Ki .>ny ••! those which jrott n 

be desirous to receive. Inserts ai • to 

our HkrhmimwUyin this country; and I hi 

al)lc to rocceed, effectually, ia pn v< ating their - 

and destructive HN»ges. [n I)ecrmb«-i\ I en 

from St. Mary 9 ! into die Provii ind 

had the good fortune to find specimens, 

of son- a mong ; in in, w I / ri- 

rf(i7ium y hmt/in/i ('<u/hir<i, /' 

that ha. < r. William Baktkam,— but 

not confirmed, thai I know of, by any BU i>0- 

tanist. It ■ ill, I 

with the above plans, at a future ou 

deal ia well a^ nanny othen thai may be equally 

interesting. I out, shortly, on a m< 

extensive excursion In die same Province. It i- i 
intention to aacend the river Bt John'i aal a^ bl 

as Lake 1 1 . USQ mil a from the ( teean— rexplore the 

shoves of Ifusqukoe — and perhaps go on to the I 

of Florida, — where I .should expect tO find many 
plants of Cuba. 

I am, dear sir, most respectftilly, kc W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO A. B. LAMBERT, ESQ., LONDON. 

Sava?inah, Ftbruary 17, 1M7. 
Sir: I wrote to you on the 7th in-t., and for I the 

letter in the Brig Bn 
mandcr, bound to Liverpool. Not meeting with an op- 



187 

portunity for London, from this place, I now forward 
the box of specimens (marked with your name) to the 
care of a friend in Charleston, — who will ship them for 
London in the first vessel that sails. I have added a few 
more specimens, principally Grasses, — and will thank 
you to send me, in return, any that are natives of Eng- 
land, or the West Indies: particularly Poa, Festuca, 
Cypcrus, Elymus, and Rottbocllia. I will also thank you 
very much to send me specimens of the true Convolvulus 
Jalapa. In comparing our Ipomoea macrorhiza (which 
has been generally supposed to be Convolvulus Jalapa,) 
with the engraving and description of C. Jalapa, in 
Woodville's Medical Botany, I can perceive no essen- 
tial difference; and yet it is certain that the Ipomoea 
macrorhiza and the Officinal Jalap are very different in 
their medical qualities : the former is destitute of purga- 
tive properties, and may be eaten with impunity, like the 
Convolvulus Batatas. Be so good as to inform me, 
whether the Convolvulus Jalapa, that is cultivated in Eng- 
land, has been tested, by its employment as a cathartic. 

I have this day received the first two numbers of Mr. 
Elliott's publication, and have packed them up for 
you, along with the specimens. In glancing hastily 
over the first number, I find a singular mistake annexed 
to my account of Collinsonia verticillata. The varieties 
a, and b, there mentioned, apply to Erianthus strictus ! 
"Grows near Milledgeville, between the Occonce and 
Ocmulgee rivers, Georgia" — is all that belongs to Col- 
linsonia, in the two concluding paragraphs. 

As it is possible that my former letter may not reach 
you, I will again inform you, that my delay in attending 
to your obliging favor, was owing to sickness and ab- 
sence from Savannah : that I should be glad to receive a 
copy of the work of* Mr. Pursh, — and accept of your kind 
offer to propose me for a member of the Linnean So- 
ciety : and requested you to direct your communications 



188 

to the care of Edmund Kinsey, corner of Chesnut and 
Third streets, Philadelphia. 

In a few day- I shall Bet out for an « \cur>i<-n 

East Florida, Any thing interesting thai I may And 
there, I shall be bappyto ini m of, and to share 

with yuu. 

I remain, sir. Ay yoilfl v\ 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN To l\ .\. KTTHL1 , K. n. 

w . /> , ./ . n, i-i7. 

dnce i hi 
so in i whether a l< >uld find you; In I 

r, — th.it I had ilmoel Qg again. — 

But, a- I i the 

country, ami -till recollecting with pride ami pleasure, 
the interesting n 1th which ther 

favored me, I thought l could do do 1 
add i you. 

I have just been infbrmod that the work on the draseet 
has at last app< I shall immedial 

copy. I have bJ med, that the oth<-r work 

6f your Father would booh be published. arc 

many specimens in your 'a Herbarium, which I 

(tarnished, that I should be glad of an opportunity 
again. Should th( on th< 

general, be published, I might farnis] ditional 

information irork 

went to pti 

It would give me gr ssure to 1 m you, 

and to be informed particularly respecting your fat] 
works. Has no one yet undertaken to write a Biogn 
of the American Linnaeus?— to which appellation your 
rather was so justly entitled. I did expect, before this 



189 

time, to have seen at least some notice of his death, and 
character, in some of our periodical publications. 

I have only just returned from the South, and have 
not yet had leisure to attend to Botanical matters: but 
hope, before long, to be more at leisure. 

In the mean time, I am yours, sincerely, 

W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO A. B. LAMBERT, ESQ., LONDON. 

New York, September 2, 1817. 
Dear Sir: Your most acceptable letter of March 17th 
reached me in Wilmington, Delaware, on the 31st of 
July, — and your valuable present, a few days after- 
wards. I do not know how to thank you enough for 
such a favor, and shall not pretend to do it by words. 
Nothing but want of health, or loss of life, shall prevent 
me from compensating you in the best, manner I am 
capable of, and as early as possible. When your letter 
came to hand, I was engaged in preparing for publica- 
tion, "Notices of East Florida, and the Sea Coast of 
Georgia, &c." But have been called off, hastily, to 
attend to Naval concerns here, — which has produced a 
momentary derangement in my Botanical plans, and 
prevented that immediate reply to your letter which you 
requested, and to which you were so highly entitled, — 
from the promptitude with which mine of the 7th of 
February was answered, and a collection of books for- 
warded, before any thing had been received from me. 
I am daily expecting liberty to return to Wilmington, — 
where I shall put up for you all the specimens you 
request, that I can command; with some others from 
E. Florida which appear to be new, — along with as 
many seeds as I possess, that may be interesting to you. 
The work of Dr. Muhlenberg, on the Grasses, has just 



190 

been published, in Philadelphia, I shall send you a 
copy, along with B .. My 

work, (which I fear will be too trifling,) shall also be 
forwi it is published. 

Tie put Dp : I, ill Savannah, along 

with the first two numl I Mr. Ei 

I under the f .Mr. .imis Pi 

who sailed I harieston the begioni 

soon after sent on the third number <■! th 
a Mr. Saol . who sailed from Bi 

nah ; hut [ <\nit. tiled the name of the vessel.— i 

-aw Mr. K Miiah, just before I left thei 

June last Be deli ssed the 

: had m y«air company ; — md n I me 

to inform that I bad seen him, — and to present his 

•ii I put up tii 1 -hall writ*.* more 

Meulai I 

work tan will be of infin 

It w ill be in my power pors Mr. 

Prusil has mad _ r ard t<» southern plan h he 

had not SO good an OppOltUl Ho' 

urntlv erred m regard t<> the kabi 
I will venture t«» assert, ft I i has 

r b <n found in • in i*reat pi 

on" anijf M [sland in the mouth of St. .Mary'- ril 

iiK-s plenty on T t 1 ol Nassau ri 

and 20 miles SOUtfa M,n\'-. Ixia Coelertinm has 

found in S Una, nor in « I 

has n been sei n any where, — 
on St. John's river,— -where Mr. Bartram di 
Even Mr. Elliott has adopted the in regard to 

this rare plant Oenothera minium is hardly dist 
from O. sinuate. The Florida hmtaiui, which I i 

tioned in a former letter, is unequivocally di 

the West Indian Camara, — which 1 lately saw in Phila- 



191 

delphia. I have called the former, Lantana Bartramii; 
and will send you a specimen and description : also, a 
specimen of the Zamia pumili, — which is a valuable 
plant in domestic economy ; of which I shall speak 
particularly in my account of E. Florida. This has not 
been found North of St. Augustine. I found, on the 
head waters of Matanza, Mimosa aurea, Bart ram. At 
the ruins of New Smyrna, and elsewhere on Musquito 
— evidently indigenous — a Myrtus, 20 feet high. Passi- 
flora n. sp. — or a variety of incarnata, floribus albis : two 
species of Rivina, kc. &c. 

I write with a mind embarrassed with other concerns; 
which I hope will be some excuse for this slovenly let- 
ter. I flatter myself it will not be long before I shall be 
able, uninterruptedly, to make you a better return for 
your kindness — a better reward than words. I have had 
but little leisure to look over your elegant engravings of 
the Pi?ic$, kc. 

Our Georgia Pinckneya must certainly be a Cinchona ; 
or, as Pursh observes, some of the Cinchonas are Pinck- 
nryas. But I think the Georgia plant a true Cinchona, — 
both from its habit and qualities : and the difference in 
its fruit is too slight to produce a separation, — or Genera 
might be multiplied ad infinitum, to the exclusion of all 
species. 

The box of books was placed in a situation on board 
the ship, which rendered them very damp, — particu- 
larly the engravings of the Pines : but, by carefully 
drying them, they are not materially injured. 

I am, my dear sir, your very sincere friend, W. B. 



DR. BALDWIN TO A. B. LAMBERT, ESQ., LONDON. 

Wilmington, Del, October 16, 1817. 
Dear Sir: I have been waiting to send my packet 



under Bm care of the Hon. Mr. Rush, who gc 
London, in the Franklin, to f Mr. 

Adams, — with whom J acquainted, and \\h 

returned in >untiy. 

Soi, 
ID my Herbarium. I J MM myristicaeformis I 

n, — i, ut bar< m ri 

pond- ii* — i 

■ 1, ihtall !.. • ' • 

On thn specimens I dow send y<>u, I i>« w\\\ 

comni'iit freely, Some of them, 1 think, will 
I u. 881 inch the habit S 

is destit : il defined | 

• 
I 

simi^ : JUtulo$0 % dU , sub- 

ibus parvu- 

ncs th< 

.!<• and 
uncultiN ated land, in I 

April. 1 I: than ti. 

i tfa ; but it i 

[had iseedoi r the common •* Chick- 

!/' — from whirh it i> \<ry di 

/ />' -cnatis ; 

caul>- . >>:;ulntt>. ibus 

copUmto-uwd TI e 

besccnt ; stem 
i plant, which inhabit* the 8ea-co 

n «l by Mr. w r n am Bartkam more tbi 
year Fie called it hmtarui i a which 

it is very distinct I 1 I Indian 

Camara, and had an Opportunity of C thnn. — 

[•This is the SteUaria prostrata, m Elliott's Sketch, 

aiulToau. n w's N, Amaic * 



193 

The Florida plant much resembles the aculeata, of 
South America, in some respects. Its common height 
is 2 — 3 feet: but I have seen it upwards of 5. The 
specimens cannot be preserved ; but it is a most beau- 
tiful plant: its umbels of flowers changing from a bright 
yellow to crimson and purple, — all of which colors are 
seen on the same plant at the same time. I am sorry 
that the specimens of some other plants are not so per- 
fect as they ought to be. I have many new Rhyncho- 
sporae, which I will send to you, when I get them 
properly arranged. ***** 

* * Mr. Pursh does not appear to have 
done much in this department of Botany [scil. the Cy- 
peraceae], — although he has changed some names. — 
Several of the Scirpi, in particular, although marked 
v. v. seem defective. Is not Scirpus acicularis, and 
pusillus the samel* Both appear to be the trichodes, of 
Muhlenberg. Scirpus ovatus, and capitatus, are the 
same. 

Botany has just sustained a loss in the death of Dr. 
James Macbride, of Charleston, S, Carolina. Mr. 
Elliott has been obliged to suspend the publication of 
his work, on account of the mortality in that city. The 
4th number was printed in August; but I have not 
received it,— although I have written repeatedly for it. 
The work of Dr. Muhlenberg, on the Grasses (which I 
am sorry he did not live to publish, himself,) I have put 
up for you. Bigelow's Flora of Boston I have sent 
for; but it has failed to come to hand. But, what I 
cannot send now, shall be attended to, in future. I have 
also put you up a few seeds. I wish I could have added 
more : but shall continue to collect. I do not know 

[*Dr. Torrey makes Scirpus pusillus, Pursh, distinct from S. 
aciculans, L. and trichodes, Muhl. See "N. American Cyperaceac/' 
under Eleocharis.] 

17 



194 

whether the Grassr* arc interesting to you; but hop* 
you will write for whatever you want. 

The engraving of Rhrxia luiea i in PURSE, ftirnit 
but a poor Bample of that lin- In the south of 

Georgia, ami in Florida, it grows much larger than 
where Le Comtb procured hi is. The b 

arc broader, an. 1 stem branching at summit,— support- 
ing many Rowers of a beautiful yellow color (not 
"small"). The R.ri/in^' i< also a fine plant; varying 
much in -1/ 

I am with great l . my dear sir, 

fours sincerely, w. B. 



DR. BALDWIN t«» a. B. 

R ./ . / , 7, W9. 

loment to and merely 

write t«. inform you that I am here, and BhaU w 

>, — altie • u l: h I Cann< ' i-mit 

any thing t<> you. 1 have been here Bince the 29tb nit 
ami have found manj plants, new and inf ig to 

me. We sail, to-morrow, for the />/ Plaia % \ Cath- 

arine's. Anything I may obtain, shall be shared with 
you, when opportunity die: 

l was present, yesterday, at the i of the 

ri-drvant Prince regent oi Portugal, — which i 
me much amusement 

In haste, I remain, dear >ir. youra very n fly, 

\v. BALDW] 



LETTERS 

FROM DR. BALDWIN TO DR. DARLINGTON, 



St. Mary's, January 15, 1817. 

My dear old friend : Your interesting letter of the 
9th ultimo, met me yesterday morning at Fernandina 
(Amelia Island), on my return from an excursion 
among the Do?is, in the adjoining province of East Flor- 
ida. To renew an acquaintance with an old friend whom 
I ever highly valued, will be at once easy and delight- 
ful. Indeed I had often contemplated this renewal, but 
neglected it from time to time, until you have at last 
done me the favor to open the way, — for which accept 
my best thanks. 

It gives me great pleasure to learn that you are be- 
coming a devoted lover of Botany. I continue to be fond 
of that Science, and shall be as glad to communicate 
any information relating to it, within the compass of 
my power, as I shall be to receive information from 
others. Several years residence in this land of flowers, 
where I have had an opportunity of extending my ex- 
cursions almost beyond the region of frost, has enabled 
me to add a few new or undcscribed plants to our South- 
ern catalogue, some of which will be published in the 
work of Mr. Elliott; — perhaps the whole in an Ap- 
pendix to that work, should I find leisure to complete 
my descriptions of them. My present excursion into 
Florida will enable me also to confirm some of our 
good old friend Bartram's doubtful plants. I have 



196 

found his Lantana Cainara, Crinum, and a few others, 
not since noticed by any Botanist. I met with the Lan- 
tana still flowering on the Island of Fort George (in 
December). His Cri7)u?n is not now to be found on St. 
Simon's; but is abundant on Amelia Inland, ami in 

many placet on the st. John's. I hare bad a delightful 

excursion as far South as St. Augustine, and aft 

up the St. John's about 80 miles from the s ea n early 

as high as Picolata; and am now engaged in packing 
up the roots and seeds, of which I bare collected many, 
to send to my botanical friends in Charleston, ami < 
where, to be cultivated, in order to complete the des- 
criptions.— Go on, and by all means publish your w I 
Chester Flora. I oner thought of publishing a Catali 
of the ik "■ plants found bera ; but as i bi I land 

many undescribed plants elsewh d infhevicin- 

LYannah (when I 
rs,) — and as Elliott has com 1 the pub! 

tion of his s B v r . . 

'. . 1 have Concluded to throw in my mile, and 

thus in one ifOffk piesenfl Bfl many of our Souti 

plants as possible. If you hare not subscribed for this 

work, I will s.nd yon a copy fnsttt, — and wr. 
comments upon it, in a future letter. 

Von are ahead of me, in books. The work of 

I have not receiTed, althougb s botanical friend prom- 
ised to send me a copy. Mr i all, of whom 
have probably heard, informed i ago, that he 
intended to publish s new edition, with additions and 

corrections, in Philadelphia; but I have not beard I 
this gentleman since. :\Ir. LambbBT, Vice-President of 
the Linnean Society of London, (who by the by is 
the real editor of Pursh's work,) from whom I 1. 
received a letter, offered to send me a copy, if I had 
not received it. I have not yet answered Lambert's 
letter, and must beg you to inform i soon as 



197 

possible, whether a new edition is likely to be pub- 
lished, — or whether any copies of the old remain ; as I 
do not wish to impose too much upon the liberality of 
Mr. Lambert, who has been so good as to request me to 
become a member of the Society, and to correspond 
with him, &:c. 

You hope for a long letter; and really, I have so 
much to say, that I have been at a loss how, or where 
to begin. But if this should not come out as long as 
you hoped for, I will endeavor to make amends in 
future ; and can only hope that my long letters to you, 
may prove as interesting as I know your communica- 
tions in return will be. My present place of residence 
is, any where. Once more I have determined to attempt 
living in Wilmington, Del. and my family are now 
there, — having left Savannah early in November. An 
attack cf my old Pulmonary complaint, in July last, has 
induced me to remain in this southern clime until 
spring ; and the excursion I have just taken has restored 
me to my usual good health. In a short time I shall 
return to Savannah, where you will please to direct 
your next letter. As I do not expect to return north 
before the month of June, I have it in contemplation to 
make a still more extensive excursion in Florida, at a 
more interesting season. Not expecting, when I left 
Savannah, to have travelled much in Florida, I carried 
no books with me, — not even Bartram's Travels. — 
Next time, I will go better prepared. Could you only 
come, and go up the beautiful St. John's along with me, 
with what delight would we pursue the steps of Bar- 
tram. Even now — I mean, in the middle of winter — 
there are plenty of Alligators to be seen, and of an 
enormous size, in that river: and you may eat ora n ges 
from morning till night, at every plantation along the 
shores, — while the wild trees, bending with their golden 
fruit over the water, present an enchanting appearance ; 

17* 



190 

but the fruit is sour. After ascending this river about 
35 or 40 miles a westerly direction, it then takes a 
southerly course, parallel with the sea, and may fairly 
be considered as a chain of lakes. While at its mouth 
it is not more than HKH) yards, — at itfl first bend to the 
south it is nut less than nitte miles P ide. Fou then pass 
on from point to point, at di I I* four and live 

miles, the coves and points on each side iponding 

with each pther, — thus widening and narrowing until 
you reach Lake George, which i> 20 miles wide, — the 
most extensive lake on this rirer. Beside which, there 
are many fine lakes at some distance from the river. — 

JfOtl pass OUt of the main nvrr into narrow inl 

which soon widen inte us lakes, bounded l>y rich 

and luxuriant shores. But unlesi I could enter more 
largely and intelligibly into i I of th«-><» things, I 

had Ixtt am on the : 

ling st. H r in pursuit i f some more 

plants, I*, i n l i tun innah, I conclude for the 

nt — and am, my 

ately yours, W. BALDW1 

i\ s. There b gus- 

tine, — while the mercury, low 

: \ On the south and east side of St John's, there 
has not hern frost sufficient to destroy tl 
the Cotton, or the Casloi plant ( Rieinus ). I 

had, last evening, 9 I ' tramj 

ed from one foot These Uttle rascals an- I ! 

Florida; andar *o*gk in this city. I am | 

to hear that UUBLB n tin- Gra*9U i> likely 

to be published at last I have been daily exp< 

letter from Dr. F. A. Muhunbbbg, <>n that subject; but 

he is not bo faithful a c indent ss his late 

ble lather. 

Do pray inform me, in a confidential way, of what the 
determination of our Government may be, ting 



199 

the Floridas. There is not a decent man in the pro- 
vince of E. Florida, who does not wish that it belonged 
to the U. States; — as the Spanish Government can 
afford no protection from the ravages, either of Indians 
or another description of people, called Patriots. Let 
me hear from you immediately. 

W. B. 
To Wm. Darlington, Esq. 
Representative in Congress, Washington city. 



Savannah, February 8, 1817. 

My Dear Friend : Your letters of the 23d and 30th of 
January are both before me. It gives me great plea- 
sure to find that in the midst of your political and pro- 
fessional concerns, you are willing to devote your leisure 
hours to the study of plants. I shall cordially co-oper- 
ate with you to the best of my abilities, — and be very 
happy to exchange specimens, should I live to return 
north. I, too, have a rising family, claiming my best 
exertions in their behalf; and it has only been — and 
will, no doubt, continue to be only at intervals — that I 
can amuse myself with my favorite pursuit. You must 
not, therefore, calculate upon my having made great 
proficiency in my botanical studies. The Grasses have 
latterly interested me much ; and it will be truly de- 
lightful to attend to them, the ensuing season, with your 
aid. You have not informed me whether you have an 
Herbarium. I hope you will, at all events, collect 
largely the ensuing spring, — not only of Grasses, but of 
all the phanerogamous plants; preserving of each spe- 
cies half a dozen or more specimens. This will enable 
you to divide with your botanical friends ; and I shall 
be very anxious to add to my southern collection, as 
many northern plants as possible. Do you attend to 



200 

Cryptogamia? I would thank you, should JTOU find it 
convenient, to collect any coriaceous Fungi that may 

come in your way. I am not yet prepared) int of 

books, to do much in this department of botany; but 

• enjoyed, for some time, die int 
denoe of the Rev. Mr. 8< uwbimtz, of Salem, N. I 
Una,— who fa n attending almost eicluarely to the 

above mention r; and baa promi cure 

for me a work which he baa himself published in I 
many, lie has been adding to the pie by hun- 

iid I shall be dad to continue my correspon- 
dence with him, after] return to Delaware. I was in 
hopes that ) uld hai finite in- 

formation i the Ploridian prorinces, I did 

Ine, from the disposition which our G-orernment 
has recently eutrality 

between the Spanish and h 

colonies, that n< might g, which 

WOUld lit in the |).ac»aldr i 

an.l West Florida to the 0, think it pas 

strange, thai eminent — indebt- 

ed, as sh i our Government — should not be will- 

ing — nay, anxioua — in this discharge her del 

especially when w< d the notorious fact, that 

acea cosi h r, annuallj . al huo 

thousand dollars, — and that .a a time when she requ 
all her resources, in men and money, to 
Mexican and South American provinces, [a not the 
hand of England in this thing 1 Almost the onlj 
tlementa aon found in E, I .— ind< \\ 

;* Qarrisons, Pernandio . — 

are ^n\ the South and East aide of the St John 1 

those extend only as high Up that river as i'icolata. — 
The best part of the j>ro\ nice i> higher Dp, On I 
side Of the river. — and new inhabited only by H 
ing Seminoles, along With a far more dangerous des- 



201 

cription of people, who live by predatory excursions, 
which they occasionally make across the St. John's,— 
stealing negroes, cattle, hogs, &c. 

The Spanish Government is entirely unable to protect 
the peaceable inhabitants, — who have been almost 
totally ruined by the late most unfortunate revolution. 
But enough of politics. It has not been of late my 
most favorite study, — although in a government like 
ours, it ought more or less to interest us all. My motive 
for speaking as I have done, in relation to E. Florida, 
you may consider interested, when I inform you that I 
have really been thinking about endeavoring to secure 
a little winter retreat on the St. John's, in case of neces- 
sity. But in the present uncertain state of affairs, it is 
out of the question. For one thousand dollars I could 
now purchase a tract of land that would be worth ten, 
under the U. States Government. You are now fairly 
in possession of the whole secret ; and if you can per- 
suade the government to take possession of the afore- 
said province, in some way or other, so as to accommo- 
date me, I shall be forever exceedingly obliged to you ! ! 

Enclosed you will find, — No. 1, a few seeds and legume 
of Cassia strigosa, n. sp. — 2, Liatris, n. sp. — 3, found 
south of St. John's. I have not yet been able to assign 
it its place among the known genera — it may be new. — 
4, Sida, new to me, but not yet fairly examined; found 
south of St. John's in fruit and flower, December 12, 
1816. It is a beautiful frutesceni species, worth culti- 
vating as an ornamental plant. These are the first that 
have come to hand. The Cotton and Indigo seeds shall 
be enclosed in my next, — as I am unable to procure 
them this evening. Other matters, for which I have 
here left no room, shall be attended to in my next. 
Please to deposit the above seeds in earth as nearly re- 
sembling that found in the Jersey Pine Barrens, as you 
can find ; and be careful not to moisten too much until 
the cold weather be past. — I am &c. 



202 

P. S. Excuse this hastily written letter. I should 
written more, and more carefully, — hut hai 
received from Ellio i i ■ request to furnish him, in | 
*, with some Botanical infonnati -lum- 

to do which, in time, I shall be oblij 
upon die Sabbath. 



Savon . / 
My Dkah Fkiend i I ha ing in raij 

re the first two number [r. Ellk rork, 

re I w !"• in.* r 

although noticed in ( Ihar ral w eeks ag 

When n u ill be compl< ted, I can onlj re, — 

inly iii not less time t! 3 months, 

to his own is: but 

5 on, much longer time will be required. Although 
that this * rk will do honor to the 
ad tend to the n < f oui B - 

tanieai independt . ilr. £. found ash lidly 

acknow ! to me i . that 

he w as not so n ell prepared i nagined, t 

(responsible an undertaking. B< tany had been long 
his i.i\ orite a n ; but when he b< publish, 

he found it was d< 

Vour comments on tl Pubsb an just 

I nnderstand he has paid too little 
authorities. Wbile innovations altmpr 

ought always to be made, — loi tblished names 

should be changed as possible. F« r 

*T1h\//;«/ Qumbei ippeen d bo I tetotx r last, — but basbeen rcco(U, 

and reprinted. The commend, therefore, which I hinted .it in my 

letter from 8 t Mary's, imiy notlM applicable: at all events, I muftfee 

It, before I my any thing about it. 



203 

pie, we have Marsliallia, Schrcbcr, — which is Athanasia, 
Walter, — Persoonia, Michx*. and Trattenickia, Persoon. 
Surely the name imposed by Schreber — as being much 
the oldest — ought to be retained. I hope the time is not 
far distant, when we shall possess something like a 
standard work of our own,* — in which we ought fairly to 
assert our botanical independence, and rescue from ob- 
livion the iiames and labors of our native Botanists, — 
who have been treated with injustice by foreigners. It 
is greatly to be regretted that Dr. Muhlenberg did not 
long ago publish his works. Had his love of fame been 
equal to his love of the Science, European Botanists 
would have been obliged to have quoted him, instead of 
changing his names. A mere Catalogue was not suffi- 
cient to prevent him from being plundered of his well- 
earned fame. 

I have put you up some more seeds; — most of them, 
I think, with a little nursing, may be made to grow, and 
at least flower. No. 5, is Eryngium aromaticum, from 
the pine barrens of E. Florida. The root is strongly 
aromatic. Discovered in 1812. Not known in Georgia. 
No. 6. Trichoma tinctorium,j Elliott (Dilatris, Persoon). 
This plant is almost an aquatic, — but will answer near 
water. No. 7. Ludwigia capiiata. We have many 
Ludwigias here. I have all that are found in Muhlen- 
berg's catalogue, and a few more. I do not know how 
Mr. Elliott may have managed them. I sent him spe- 
cimens of all I had, without any very specific information 
along with them. He had confounded the capitata with 
the mollis, and the alternifolia with the virgata. I should 
be glad to see them all cultivated in the North. It is by 
attending closely to plants in families, that we are ena- 

[* There is now a prospect of the Doctor's hope being fully real- 
ized — intheiYorM American Flora of Torre y & Gray. Feb. 1841.] 

[-(-Published, by Elliott, under the name of Lachnanther.] 



204 

bled correctly to discriminate the species and 
Seeds of all I can muster shall be sent <>r brought on. — 
No. 8. Pctalostcmum candidum, or carncum. I have 
seeds of both J but not marked distinctly — and no: 
distinguished. No. !>. Awdepiai — This i> a ooble genuSi 
and requires a revision, li r doubtful 

species, that have been d< d. No. 10 n nia 

flatfcarpa. Dr. .Mi iu.i.-. habitat of 

this plant in Carolina and Mississippi I have only 
found it native in E. Florida, — and culm ated in ( i< "rgia 
and iS. Carolina. It i> called u 8k nna,' % — hut I bell 

nearly ineri % as a cathartic* No. 11. Agrostis ind< 
Swaitz. "Black seed, " or "black gi object 

to a disease arhich frequently turns the seed and 

black. A very hardy p. n-nnial 

winter pasture in this country. Ho. 12. Oyjwas, 

Mari $ cm $ - p erhaps a d< <"urcd 

ith of the Bt John 9 * No. 18. I Us 

family i •, and r All 

found in wot or moisfl situations. 1 put up his 

without recollecting that \ \ n it in l It 

may be w.n, however, to compare them. Ho. n. /Vu- 
am Caroliniana. A beautifbl tree. Found d< on 

the Sea-coast, but far to the arest Said to be rery 
poisonous. Smells strongl] ol the Frame acid — arhfc 
is now said to be the active j rinciple in this natural 
family of plants. No. l r >. A idim jwmfoss, Hx I Wo, l 
Schocnus m . n. >p. Fort Qeorge, E. Florida. — 

No. 17. Lycium Camlinianum — a marine >hrub, and 
may be difficult to cultivate. No, 18, I'niola paniculai 
No. 19. Ilex Dahoon. No. 20. Uaura a? . — 

No. 21. Magnolia grand 'i flora. I have DOl taken time 
to make a selection, but have put up wh came 

most conveniently to hand. I have just obtained for 
you, from a neighboring plantation, some u Bea Island 91 
Cottonseed. You are not perhaps aware that this and 



205 

the "upland" change into each other, according as they 
are transplanted further from, or nearer to, the Sea. 
Mr. J. Le Conte, however, has informed me that there 
are two distinct species in cultivation. I have paid no 
attention whatever to these plants. M Indigo" not being 
now cultivated, the seed is difficult to obtain. I may 
how ever procure some, further south, — where it has be- 
come in some measure naturalized — growing sponta- 
neously about houses. 

As I cannot have the pleasure of your company in 
my excursion into E. Florida, I shall set out for that 
provir.ee in a few days ; and must request that you will 
direct your next letter to St. Mary's. 

I remain with sincere respect, &c. 



Savannah, February 19, 1817. 
My Dear Sir: Yours of the 10th, reached me last 
evening. Nothing can give me more pleasure than 
the kind of liberties you are taking, in requesting to be 
furnished with seeds from the Southern States. Such is 
the interest I take in the cultivation of southern plants 
in the north, that I am extremely obliged to you, — as 
you will, 1 hope, be sensible, when you receive the 
seeds already put up for you. Before I received your 
first letter, I was at a loss to know to whom I could 
with propriety entrust my collections; and could think 
of none except the Peirces, in East Marlborough.* In 

[•Joshua and Samuel Peirce; two brothers, who, about the 
year 1800, commenced the cultivation of rare and interesting plants 
— particularly ornamental trees and shrubs, — on their farm, in 
Chester county, Penn'a. The industry, skill, and taste of these 
gentlemen, have rendered the premises, thus embellished, one of the 
most delightful Botanico-agricultural teats within that ancient 
county.] 

18 



206 

my collection, are seeds of many new plants, which 
require to be cultivated before I can finish my descrip- 
tions of them. To whom, then, could I apply with M 
much probability of Attaining my object | ! ■ 

I have heard of ^Ir. Whitlow through the medium 
of Lk COHT1 andNuTTALL; — not as a very gr 
cntific character,— but as pretty much of an imp # *r. — 
But let every man be fairly judged by his works. His 

ncttu may be oi huge Import thing that] 

know; and bit txkibUion» % \ at Washington, may be 
really useful. In London, I am told, he has latti i Ij 

I noted,— from ha\ ing -rood 

price, many vcri/ j , a hicfa did n 

■tly Co- ad with his lira 

criptions of them I vrill remember 

him with gn . and make a liberal di 

n to a bich he may in Ju 
Th<- aro 

i ; aor Ihe other 
fitted by them. I have m a, — butahail be 

glad to that may be 

published from an ! 

The first two numbers of Mr. 
reached me the ly. I h 

hastily through them, [o page 87 of Wo. l. he b 

rously blended m / si net us 

with the account of Collinsonia verticillata ! As 1\\q joke 

' \ D d ■ bet of the seeds, here spoken of, grew so as to afford 

this s pecimens for the Hsibsriam; but Ihe greater portion — 

either from a want of congenial soil and riimatr, or, mow probably, 

a want of skill and proper attention — failed.] 

[jMr. W. WCS, at that time, gifing a SOOTS! of Lectures on the 
rudiments of Botany, at the seat o\ the (Ji'ncral (Jwvcrnmcnt, — illus- 
trating the strueture of flowers, and the principles of the LmnacaA 
Classification, by means of large transparent paintings.] 



207 

falls most heavily upon me, I must lose no time in ex- 
plaining; for, (whatever may be the case with Whit- 
low,) my botanical reputation is so scarce that I have 
none to spare. Take out, then, (when you see the 
work,) from Collinsonia vcrticillata — "var. b. purpuras- 
cens, with flowers (or calyx rather) of a purplish color, 
and panicle short: grows near Crooked River bridge, 
Cambdcn county, Georgia" — and place it under the de- 
scription of Erianthus strictus, p. 40. and it will be as I 
originally intended. 

With the Panicums, in No. 2. I am not altogether well 
satisfied. At present I will only hint at one objection, 
or two. Panicum viscidum (p. 123.) is, in the first 
place, incorrectly named. This species is remarkable 
for secreting a resinous substance insoluble in water. — 
It ought, therefore, to have been called resinosum. I 
did think, (and my truly scientific friends, the Le Con- 
tes, thought with me,) that this was an unequivocally 
new species : but Mr. E. has taken it into his head that it 
is the scoparium, of Michaux (Flor. Bor. Amer. 1. p. 
49.); while he has given us, at p. 119. a scoparium, La 
Marck, which is to me, the scoparium of Michaux, ex- 
actly. Mr. E. however, in his description of it, has un- 
fortunately omitted, what, to me, constitutes its strong- 
est specific character — the setae on the peduncles. No 
other Panicum that I have seen, is furnished with this 
character, — which, in a family so extensive, is of the 
utmost importance. Had P. viscidumbc.cn the scoparium 
of Mx. is it not likely that so sagacious a Botanist would 
have noticed particularly its resinous qualities'! which 
are so remarkable, that it would have been impossible 
for him to have touched it without soiling his fingers 
almost as much as though he had thrust them into a tar- 
bucket! At the same time, he speaks of setaceous pe- 
duncles, — while in tkis plant, the peduncles are all near- 
ly as smooth as the chrystal of my watch! 



Again, at page 126, we have Panicum ensi/olium. 
There never has been, and I suspect ther will be, 

a Panicum with sword-shaped leowe* t in the ti- 
nman, or botanical term. But Mr. E. will 
not bear the blame for this blunder. 1* upon the 
should' i icter, as you will Bee. 1 
much inl 
Panicumt. At the tune when [ought v 

to them. — f| at 

was sick on a bed, — that is, I mean, on a Lilter t with a 
blanket under m<\ according t<> the i of this 

country. ^ only in p ion of a Buffi< 

stock and health, and all the other ingrcd 

necessary ?<< enable me to accomplish elegantly what- 
ever I d l would immediately publish 
gmpk of the American Panii 

I had made u] 
above "sketch' 1 
clini t, in so accommodating s r, — I 

ed of it t<> Dr. Jon rthy 

young Physician and man of & , who m oied 

m my I 
JTou inquii i vi i wrote 1 upon B 

// //, ficc. I did scribble som . but 

not exactly that jumbled up, I mmuni- 

cation, which you allu 

lactic M 'I did think that the Herba 

really a I (low t: w, — and 

that the weight of its intrinsic worthli would * 

sink it into merited oblivion. My object, tfa 
was to gently touch Dr. Mitchill, and Co. for sanction- 
ing such trash with their names, — and thus giving 
rency to productions which disgrace the literary char- 
acter of our country: — When lo! and behold! the im- 

[Sce Analcclic Magazine fur March, IS 16 — Published at Phila- 
delphia.] 



209 

partial and independent editors of that Magazine lopt 
off all that part of the communication, and otherwise 
altered it, — I suppose for fear of vexing Drs. Henry and 
Mitchill. Then, to excuse this (I should think) un- 
warrantable liberty, they came out with an ex post facto 
law, — declaring that they had a right to abridge, alter 
and amend all communications, unless forbidden by the 
authors. Certainly, had I known of the existence of 
such a law, I should at once have withdrawn the com- 
munication, — rather than suffer it to have been muti- 
lated, and the object for which it was written entirely 
defeated. To crown all, they must publish my private 
letter, — or as much of it as suited their purpose, — with 
the initials of my name ! What added still more to my 
vexation in this affair, I had neglected to keep a copy ; 
and endeavored in vain, through the medium of a friend, 
to obtain the one transmitted. There was certainly no 
scurrility in the observations I made, respecting those 
scientific gentlemen who preposterously encouraged 
the publication of the disreputable work of Henry. — 
On the contrary, my respect for their literary charac- 
ters constituted the strongest motive for cautioning 
them against such acts of imprudence, — which was 
done in as delicate a manner as the nature of the sub- 
ject would admit, — without my feeling any thing but 
real respect for them. I even went so far, in their be- 
half, as to endeavor to excuse them on the ground of 
inadvertency. I was willing to believe that they had 
really looked over Henry's book, without once looking 
into it, — or they might surely have been acquainted 
with its foolish contents. After al], and at all events, I 
do not begrudge these learned gentry (for whose repu- 
tation the sapient editors of the An. Magazine were so 
much concerned,) the honor of having their names re 
corded in the Herbal of S. Henry, Botanist ! Don't be 
uneasy : — I may chance to write as freely and frequently, 

18* 



210 

and nonsensically, as you could wish. However, it is 
my intention to write as much sober as pos>; 

and to confine myself pretty much to botanical mat- 
ters, — rejoicing m< n ly that I have a correspon- 
dent so well qualified to aid me in all my plans. It is 
now half pa tUo 1 i'. BL To-morrow, l irill 
vur to muster up tome more seed <u. 
In the mean time l am most affectionati ly jrou 

P. S. Fibruary 20. Eup ho rbia Cyathophora, 

Muhl. Catal. picta, Bartram. No. 28. (i : y 
certain which— may be wamoica* N . -I. // 
speciosus— inhabits swamps; but readily ace >m 

! t > a dry Boil, here. N AflOfiymat, ii 

habit of Cuscuta. No. 20. ( 

v, hich,— but reiy pretty. 7. Er ) 

hum, — call 38. G 

— or something. N Oena .Muhl. — 

BO. ( D the Band Hills 

Fort Barrio Uatamaba. No. U. Zyrii 

cylifUirica if Dot a l 
special care of this, — b i the 

or Variety, D it: Capitulis cylindra 

jioribus tilbis. Plant it in a wet litU 

mi ist. Try s few - the 

earth moist. I hope you will DOfl find fault with in 

u bo man] ;al pla Mr. N. 

show d me s letter he had r I from 

Gtardem r, requesting to be furnished with \. . B 

and 1 do not rcc what, from this country. — hut not 

a single Botanical plant; as he had 

already! No. 32. Xyrisjimbriata. W. B. 



Prospi d II p i \ r • : ( • 1 

/:. . Florida, March 'SO, I8T3 
Dear Sir: Seated alone on the summit ot* the high 



211 

land on the Island, which is elevated about 50 feet above 
the surrounding country, and commanding an exten- 
sive and varied prospect of the Ocean, the mouth of 
St. John's, and the different hammocks and cultivated 
fields, — it just popt into my head, that while taking this 
little resting spell, I might as well occupy it in giving 
you a short sketch of the vegetable productions by 
which I am surrounded. — There is then, within the cir- 
cumference of about 20 yards — and all to be recog- 
nized, from my seat, — the following productions, viz : — 
Magnolia grandijlora, Quercus virens, Laurus Borbonia. 
Olea Americana, Ilex opaca, I. caduca, vel prinoides, Vac- 
cinium arboreum, V. stamineum, Andromeda ferruginea, 
Chamaerops serrulata, Smilax pubera, Mx. Tillandsia 
usneoides, Galactia pinnata, of Elliott, (as there is a 
foreign pinnata, this name must be changed,) vulgd 
M Devil's shoe strings," — Pteris caudata, Schoenus macro- 
carpus 1 But among all these, not one flower is to be 
seen ; and the only specimen in flower, that I have in 
my Port Folio, after a ramble of 2 or 3 hours, is Hopea 
tinctoria, — (Symplocos, Willd.) — but, if there is any pre- 
cision in Generic characters, it is truly Hopea, and not 
Symplocos. But, think not there are no flowers to be 
found on the Island. Although the season is at least a 
month behind, there are Cnicus horridulus — a few speci- 
mens of which would fillacart, — Scorzonera pinnatifida, 
Krigia Yirginica, Houstonia rot undi folia, Bignonia ca- 
preolata, Gelsemium sempervirens, Aira obtusata, Allium 
inodorum, Fumaria (now CorydalisJ aurea, Vicia Caroli- 
niana, Spartina juncea, Silenc Antirrhina, Carex — not 
determined by me, — Cardamine Pennsylvania, Trades- 
cant ia Yirginica, Prunus Caroliniana, P. Virginiana, 
Erysimum pinnatum, Pumex hastatulus — if distinct 
(which I think it is) from acetosella ; Geranium Carolini- 
anum, Viola cucullata, Antirrhinum Canadense (it might 
as well be called Floridanum,) — Panicum latifolium. 



212 

S'suvium Portulacastrum : and the following, which 
may be new ; Galium, with very large hispid fruit; Se- 
linuml Ruppia, fmaritima? ) I , mihi ; I 

have also / ^ia, from the Main; mutrmHsf 

something, I shall call it; and, I cannot just now think 

One beautiful little Txiccrta buflaris ha ap- 

^earance since I began to irrite. Like Ihe Chamelion, 

this innocent little creature baa tl 

color. ( lould I only see a hu " (Har- 

i) rattl( . it would help out my story 

much. During B years that I havfe been bo this southern 
country, I have seen but one living rattlesnake! But, 
bad not ; I woul 

lata j "ii irith Hi thi I I should 

to vi Ind up thi 
some / [call them bj 

ir than -. a bicta ba • 

buzzing iii 

l i., Talbot 

[aland, — wh jn to tah I 

Burded to < Charleston. 
Acorns of the Live I >ak, l h \ but it 

Is my intent! j on with me to Delaware a box 

mi young plants, — to a large port! on i I whichyou will 
be welcome. 1 now 

Bowering. The a i . that many 

of thrm have shed their l them 

was h whi it on 

theSlst Inst nip the young cotton on 

Nassau river, on the Mali - north of this 

[aland. It Is now cold, cloudy, unpleasant, 
weather, — very di> ing to the planters. — A 

[•This was probably the /\ Floridatn, Nvitt. First sent from 
Florida hv Dr. Baldwin to Mr. Kli.iott, uiuler the name of V. /*- 

cida. See Elliott's Sketch, Vol. 2. p. 576.] 



213 

Governor is daily expected in this Province, from old 
Spain. 

P. S. I cannot boast of the enjoyment of good health. 
While in the act of travelling, I have generally experi- 
enced an exemption from disease. After visiting Mus- 
quitoe, it is my intention to return North: but it maybe 
only to be buried among my kindred and my friends, — 
which will be some satisfaction. — I have also friends in 
Georgia, and in Florida, who will ever be entitled to my 
best wishes. The Floridians have lost none of their an- 
cient hospitality. 



Fort George, April 19, 1817. 

My dear Darlington : Your letter dated March 10th, 
was received the day before yesterday. What a treat — 
to receive such communications here on this solitary 
Island. For several weeks I had not received a line 
from the United States. But what an awjul job of work 
you have been cutting out for me. I must confess that 
it reaches a little beyond the scope of my ambition, — 
and very far, I fear, beyond my skill to execute, — not- 
withstanding the stimulating quality of your sugges- 
tions. The day, I hope, is not far distant, when we shall 
talk these matters over ; and I do assure you, that your 
hints shall not be lost sight of by me. Whether they 
will produce the effect you so much desire, is another 
affair. 

I will now briefly answer some of your queries. — 
There are no mountains in E. Florida.* How far the 

*On the 30th ult. I wrote you from the top of one of the highest 
hills in the Province ! a sand hill, about 50 feet above the surround- 
ing level. On the south side of St. John's, about 9 miles from the 
Bar, is a chain of sand hills (covered principally with Ceratiole 
tricoides) the highest of which may be 70 feet. 



214 

western waters connected with the bay of 
might be made to communicate with those of the Atlan- 
tic, i cannot from act ration determine, — not 
having been In West Florida; but I have no doubt, from 
the credible ini had, that those waters 
could be useAilly - > i moat not 
now r details. With the waters of this I 

I am r.ithor bett :i;il of Onlj s miles 

would open a v. mmum n St. John's 

(near its mouth) ami gustine. About 40 n 

from the Bar, another canal of only l mi 
a communication with the above mei 

rcely anj labor would be required to connect the 

ui's with Indian ri\ In 

short, DO C( the co 

nience ol inland nai i| but unfortunal 

not .i tingle g 3t Marj 

the be L All the B ast arc subject to g 

changes. At pi Is but 1 

John's I !<t; and little im>p' than 14 at 

ipring tides. Those of M nd Indian river arc 

•till worse. Afl tting inside of 8t John's bar, 

may carry (to use the tailor phrase) at least twice the 

depth of M at i brim; OVOI the I 

HOW much, then, is BUCh an mlfOHOJ into so nob 

water to be d : but I see no remedy, 'i 

L Augustine will only admit of small sloops, 
had s grand In my n . to remedy this 

sad defect— although too visionary to be made public 

lies westerly I Lugustine, and distant 

only about IS miles lally (as \\ me) de- 

seending towards the latter place. To open a c. 
would therefore be easy: and might not the i 

ance of so rest a body of water (as could be thus con- 
d) have the effect of opening a channel from the 

m, deep enough to admit large vessel 



215 

Indians — These are now far from being numerous; 
and would be no object of dread, under a well regu- 
lated government in this Province. The " wandering 
Seminoles," since the late war, have been principally 
driven west of the Suwanna river (little St. John's, Bar- 
tram); and would be perfectly harmless, could they be 
happily placed in a situation so as not to be murdered, 
and insulted by their unprincipled and ivorse than 
savage neighbors. Notwithstanding the government of 
the U. States do appear disposed to award something 
like justice to these truly unfortunate Proprietors of the 
Forest; the genuine philanthropist, who views the 
whole human race as one vast family, still sees much 
to deplore. The Africans, unjustly held in bondage, as 
they are, protected by their owners, experience few of 
those distresses and privations which the Aborigines are 
subjected to. Detested in the estimation of the tawny 
savages must the white men naturally be, when, not- 
withstanding all that the United States have done, con- 
tinual depredations are still committed upon them, — 
in the stealing of their cattle, horses, hogs, &c. Every 
attempt to do themselves justice necessarily results in 
their own destruction ; and the cry of vengeance rings 
from one end of the U. States to the other. The late 
ever-to-be-lamented Col. Benjamin Hawkins so far 
succeeded in doing justice to the Lower Creeks/ as to 
draw down the curses of the State of Georgia upon his 
head : but the blessed effect of his enlightened and hu- 
mane policy, as agent of Indian affairs, was so far to 
interest the Savages in the cultivation of the soil, and in 
a respect for the U. States, as induced them to resist the 
temptations of the enemy, and to take an active friendly 
part on the American side, during the war. I cannot men- 
tion, or think of the name of Hawkins, without sensations 

*The U/tper Crttks alone were hostile, in the late war. These 
were situated too far beyond the influence of Col. H. 



216 

of the deepest regret. Blest with all that wealth, learn- 

and the most n civilization could be 

the meridian of life, he left Che land of his kin id his 

friends, to n ipe tb misery and \\ reto 

from . in the irestero vrild 

i ry aril 
sum as the rose.* 1 Wh n in the c 

of humanity slept with 
Bbnbzbt. ce wild an 

Muscogi rs have water d 
could I join them in lai r his loa 

it will b( upon his 

1 1 1 1 . 

Uenl 1 1 
surprised m • mora than I I. M. f 

Esq., 

lions 
Of thi ii i 1 11 a j I his own 

i ut dutj i * igent, i 
justice i 
men! and citizi n w hat principle in 

law, then, fa 7 \\'( ra 

it know u that Mr. r In- 

dian rights that bis pi intnn at 

might ha it, J 

him " but that in .ill 

hit deci i ds he will I side i f • (—the 

in which be is /> . and where the popuhr 

. 
and often fa n, impoa <l upon, at Buch a 

from the th< their de It will bo no dif- 

[*I have no eon I am j 

acquainted with him. and have an aalaem fv>r him: — but, recollect 

the dep'h nf prejudice. M yle in G lit be 

considered pious, nevertheless thin!; that the In Jians ought to be ex- 
terminated !] 



217 

ficult matter, under such a state of things, to produce 
disturbances among the Indians which will lead to their 
destruction,— and the Government sanction the horrid 
deed, from the want of real knowledge of the infamous 
causes which would alone produce such an event. 

As a member of the great Legislature of a nation, less 
corrupt than any in the world, I beg you will reflect 
upon these serious things. It may be in your power to 
aid greatly the cause of humanity. — But I am straying 
far from your Queries, — and have almost filled a sheet 
of paper at the very beginning of my letter. — Live Oak, 
fit for ship building, considerable. It is abundant in the 
Province; but that only which is in the immediate vi- 
cinity of salt water, is considered prime for ship build- 
ing. That kind of land which is here called Hammock, 
ncrally covered with Live Oak. It is a little ele- 
vated, calcareous, still abounding all along the coast 
with undecomposed oyster shells, &c. But by far the 
greatest quantity of land along the sea board is low 
Pine barren, covered with Pinus palustris (long-leaved 
Pine), principally. Under growth, Chamaerops serrulata, 
or Saw Palmetto, — with some fine shrubs, — as Andro- 
medas, Bejaria, &c. This is the most sterile of all des- 
criptions of land. What we call Savannas, in this 
country, correspond pretty well with the Prairies of 
the West; but are seldom so extensive. The soil in 
them is clayey, — while the Pine barren is sandy. There 
is, as yet, but little naked sandy desert; but should the 
weather continue, a few years longer, as dry as it has 
been for the last two years, — and fires should rage as 
extensively, destroying the vegetation, — a large portion 
of the maritime part of Georgia would be rendered like 
the deserts of Arabia ! Were I a member of the Georgia 
ture, my most strenuous exertions would be 
made to prevent, by law, the burning of the Forests,— 
which impoverishes the land, and does incalculable 

19 



218 

mischief, without one single advantage resulting from 

it. Yet many of the stupid people do it, to destroy the 

rattl* — make the gra> — and I Del 

the fun of looking *l it. Adieu ! You may h»ar from 

DM again from . — hould I halt th 

ha\ My health is tolerable. 

J'. S. JTon from 

me, containing seeds. I cannot n 
but I think I Bent y<m tin-' If] 

most have been dated here about 

of February. May on<- 1 

, and I oed in I 

I have now plenty of Indigo - you, — which I in- 

tended 1 1 hi ind 1 

1 ' -It Savannah ; — .1! ith a H 

an thei 
/' ,80 BOUtfa I 

pistine. I thai! kn m m 

I iia\ e thi camining of the artifii 

r the count I Wound. ] And it 

filled with human torn . 

m in ui'ii. I my <-<>mpan- 

ionsi and may leave tin- plac 



s \ M -17. 

Mv Di 

of the loth of March, 

am i. cing to die southward | 

will readily I 

of time in letter-writin| a in ■ hurry, 

and do no! feel in a disposition to study much, 1 will 

copy from i isl writl 

n of the late Ji d rod: a gi a pos- 

sessing the most amiable qualities, a] th a claa*>; ation, 



219 

of Baltimore, a few loose observations on the salubrity 
of the climate of E. Florida, — and annex some addi- 
tional information, should it occur to me, without being 
at the trouble of squeezing my brains. 

— " But above all, the salubrity of the climate in this 
Province must ever render it desirable. That in the 
course of its cultivation, to the westward, and particu- 
larly on the St. John's, a sickly period must be expected : 
but I know of nothing that can occur to interrupt the 
health which is enjoyed all along the sea coast. 

Through the sultry months of summer, you are duly 
regaled with the S. E. [qui North? E.] trade wind- 
and most of the tropical fruits, with a little attention, 
could doubtless be cultivated here in the greatest 
abundance.* St. Augustine may be justly considered 
one of the most healthy cities in the world. Neither 
intermitting nor remitting fevers are known here ; nor 
have I heard of a case of pulmonary consumption." — 
(You will readily understand that I except from this 
general account, all sporadic cases of disease, — whether 
occurring among natives, or strangers. Neither, how- 
ever, are liable to those destructive fevers which ravage 

and an ambition to render himself useful in society. He has 
travelled in the Southern States for his health. I became acquainted 
with him in St. Mary's, in 1812. Afterwards, when on a tour to 
the western country — and particularly among the Cherokee Moun- 
tains, — he gave me important topographical sketches of the country, 
as he passed along. His letters are written in a style of neatness, 
elegance, and classical purity, not often (I think) excelled. They 
are entitled to full credit; and I am happy, when travelling, to 
make him returns for his kindness. 

[•This idea, of introducing tropical plants into Florida, was 
recently acted upon with great energy and public spirit, by the late 
Dr. Pe RHINE, — whose melancholy and untimely fate the country 
has so much reason to deplore.] 



most of tlio sna ports of Georgia and S. Carolina. T 
causes of this mighty difference may be Attended to 
hen **Xhi I those » \tremes oi 

cold, which are exp< in th< s. 

roHna and I ia. Ike inhal m eld 

i tho* 

It they ictly so ruddy or iair- 

skianed, as tl d \»-<>\ f possess all t; 

plumpness and solidity of leak, irhich constitutes 
aound health, along with the pl< 
[ do not know where to find a countrj !•■- 

tudinarianew— You will ol 
tiona, tint do j I b 

sickly ; nor need ll e so. Slight 

intennittei tonally prerail 

and d Amelia Island, has 

d with 1 ahighergrade, — fir >sea 

which] a eolutk>a f and which (I thinks) 

I 

;t little land lias y 
cultiraied on 5 

cle ag the swamp i i- 

tably produc and mortality : bul bj 

management— (1 tulthrating tugar t \ 

— ) i havr no doubt it would be possible to culti« 
vata the land a Itfaool rend ring it sick ly, F rtunati ly, 
this i- tw m mp y a countrj old 

lily admit of dry cultu 
l am non trarelling in a ijpm1.m1i tlyacc< 

with my objects of pursuit, n* : by wati r,and by land- 
on hor i . n foot— in such a leisurely m 

i.) afford me an opportunity of looking a little about, 
as I pass along; We bare three stout Africans, and i 
rae to convey our btf n which we alterant 

take a stride to •. Th< b a 

1 nivnn would no doubt amuse a CftssA tiff man. — 



221 

In this delightful manner we have travelled from St. 
John's. We left Fort George before day on the morn- 
ing of the 1st, and, including the distance by water, we 
travelled at least 25 miles. In the evening, we en- 
camped at the cottage of an ancient Minorcan, on the 
borders of the plains of San Iago. Here we procured 
plenty of milk, and feasted sumptuously on afat Gopher." 
Our venerable old host, whose roof was thatched with 
the Palmettoes by which he is surrounded, has not less 
than 200 head of fine fat cattle, — with other stock in 
proportion ; and quietly lives in peace and plenty. He 
is one of those, who, more than half a century ago, 
were enticed from their native land, by the famous Dr. 
Turnbull,— and experienced nine years of slavery at 
New Smyrna, on Musquitoe river, (See Barteam, &c.) 
The plains of San Iago, — situated immediately on the 
sea coast, about 15 miles south of St. John's, — occupy 
at least a space of 9 square miles. The land is of an 
excellent quality, affording the finest range for cattle ; 
and this is all the use that is now made of it. It would 
produce the finest sugar cane, cotton, or almost any 
thing which an industrious agriculturist might choose 
to plant. In my last letter, I intimated the probability 
of connecting the Western waters with those of the 
Atlantic. Upon further inquiry, I find this to be imprac- 
ticable. Yesterday, with the rising sun, we again moved 
cheerfully on. After passing the plains, and crossing 
the head waters of North river, we travelled through 
Salt flats, Pine barrens, and occasionally a good ham- 
mock,— and reached this city early in the evening. It 
was the anniversary of the Massacre of Madrid. High 
Mass was in celebration, and the flags displayed in 
mourning. * * * [After giving a ludi- 

crous account of an accident, by which his port folio of 
specimens was damaged, the Doctor proceeds.] * * 

[* A species of Ttsludo, or Tortoise] 

19* 



Misfortunes iwrer come ringkf. This morning, v. 

about dressing * on bin 

Copping . fee on examining my wi 

. I found it completely immersed in th< 
■ i< ttle th.it had been fall of gin, which bad unluckily 
found i the road, through th<- misman :it < .f* 

Q1 hl> EXC( ll". 

and staid <«t home. We h I <>nr 

Journey to-i . ,— but H that F 

an objection to our setting oufl on Bucfa a holj 
I am th< paring I 

; od,— whew the fi moos quai 
is found, of which this city and it 

I u ill honor tne with hi^ com] 
In I 



Ifo) 16, 181 

■ i: \ find 

ure. 
Char] m Billsborou 

pping I 

I 

my discos eriea in this quarter. W 
our retr milrs m»rih < t' ." 

- 
gress, d me an i little 

gusti -land. XI 

bag objeel w 

•The number of fish, of ihe m kind and 

found in tl incredible. Four ham hooka, 

id* 1 in OM 

( 



223 

on a ridge that runs parallel with the sea, the whole 
length of the Island, and at a distance of one to two 
miles from the beach. The Island is here about three 
miles wide ; and the width of the testaceous ridge 300 to 
400 yards, and of unknown depth. The quarries have not 
been sunk more than 12 or 15 feet, — as excellent fresh 
water obstructs all iurther progress downwards. But 
there is no necessity for running deep, to obtain an in- 
finite abundance of this valuable material, — as it 
reaches in many places the surface of the ground. — 
Loose shells generally cover the surface ; after which 
a thin plate of stone, and so on, alternately, — the inter- 
vening loose shells gradually diminishing, and the 
plates of stone increasing in thickness, until it becomes 
perfectly solid. It splits with the utmost facility, hori- 
zontally ; and is easily dressed, with a hatchet, into the 
forms required. A little to the west, is a chain of Sand 
Hills, — which evidently proves that the shelly ridge had 
been the intervening beach, where the ocean, at some 
former distant period, rolled its waves along, deposit- 
ing the shells, — which have thus been cemented together 
by a chemical process. I shall not stop to theorize, — 
nor will I inform you, at this time, what kind of shells 
afford this stone,— as / do not know ; — being but a poor 
Conchologist. This can, however, be ascertained some 
time hence. I may add, that the little animal, which 
originally inhabits these famous shells, makes excellent 
soup. This Island is 20 miles in length, but contracts, 
near its southern extremity, to a few hundred yards; 
and here the shelly ridge passes across Matanza river 
to the Main. As you advance south, these stones be- 
come harder, — and of course of a more delicate tex- 
ture, — but more difficult to manufacture. They prob- 
ably continue all the way to the Cape, — certainly as far 
idian river. 
The evening proving squally, we were unable to re- 



224 

cross Matanza river; and took up our abode for the 
night, in the ancient and venerable fabric erected 
the old Fish, who was the original proprietor of the 
Island. Be was a native of Flatbush, in tli of 

New York; and: irhich have hard 

boen e: ty part of the Province. Hen are 

the remains of perhaps Kb I celebrated Orange 

Oram in the world. in that are 30 

I in height, — and Mill retain ■ portion of their L r "l<: 
fruit Bui all La no* in nun-. Two generation! 
away. 

We a f politely i by two hai 

young ladies (mulal randchildren of the 

Dtioned Fish, as killed by light- 

ning a fen \- .irsago, and n<» on tly 

qualifl p the ; ood order. Tl 

od Ian Ji Island, if pretty & matt" 

;htful Bumi On t- 

morning of Kb 

i embarking in ■ Mr | \ia- 

tanza riv< r loul . i*s [aland and the Main. 

At a few miles distance, on Khe western . we pas* 

an elevati d Bpo1 a hich i atained th< i of 

Governor Moultus. a small cabin, an 
nv. all thai ap] i mark he 

hand of high cultii atioo and improvement 
tended. At Khe southern extremity of 1 [aland, 

and i bar y stands a Spanish to wer, where a 

poral's guard iastationed to] folks, ai ass 

by. Early in t; encam 

[aland), situated on Khe north sfa asa Inl 

This is i small barren I dand ; contains 
a remarkable mound of oyster shells, full "t bones of 
the aborigines, along with Khe implements 

with which they were interred] — as earthen veasi 
hatchets, be h\ a little time we caught | sh 



225 

for supper. Here we spread our blankets under the 
canopy of a. star spangled sky; and after a little perse- 
cut ion from the musquitoes, reposed in peace. Our 
heads were defended by "Spanish bayonets" {Yucca 
aJoifolia). The leaves of this elegant plant (which is 
now in flower,) are furnished, at the extremity, with 
most formidable spines, — and, spreading out horizon- 
tally, they inllict serious wounds, when carelessly 
stumbled upon. I have not been able to discover a Y. 
gloriosa, distinct from this plant. Next morning, cross- 
ing the Inlet at the southern point of Pehon Island, we 
ascended upper Matanza river, — which, running south 
10 or 12 miles close to the sea shore, originates by 
several heads in the swamps, a little westerly. Tracing 
the eastern branch, we landed early in the afternoon at 
the plantation of a Mr. Hernandez. Here, in a thin 
sandy hammock of small Live Oaks, Cabbage, and Saw 
Palmettoes, I had the gratification to find the "Wild 
Sago," or Coontia* of the Seminoles, — and to assign 
it its place in the sexual system ; Dioecia, Polyandria : 
natural order, Palmae. I have no books with me to 
refer to ; but it is probably a new genus, — approaching 
very closely in habit to the real Sago family fCycasJ. 
At supper, I had the pleasure to eat the bread prepared 
from the large tuberous root of this plant. In the late 
times of difficulty many negroes, and others, were pre- 
vented from perishing with hunger by having recourse 
to it; and the slaves on this plantation now save half 
their allowance, in consequence of using it. I have no 
hesitation in saying that it will be found among the 
most important of our Esculentia. I believe I have 
already given you a hint of this plant. At some future 
period, I will give you more particular information. — 
*Bow-Li.r;s, the grandson of Bartram's "Long }Ya rrior" says, 
that " Coontia" signifies Bread plant. [This proved to be the Za- 
mia pumrta. See subsequent letter, of May 27.] 



226 

Wo spent a whole day lecannoiteiing, here ; ami in a 
ramble near tl ch, 1 had the pleasing horrible 

a living rattlesnake, gth. He 

had the ity, irhen nnp d by us, to give the 

dread alarm ; but ■ sudd prehend, al 

d my companion from feeling the full I f his 

magnanimity. Never hai ully, 

s<> horribly terrific, as this rattlesnak 
the gigantic alligator, with his iron tid\ t, ami forraid 
tuskfi grinning horribly, with ghastly i 

in my estimation no comparison, ti. 

111- were double, and an inch and an halt in Length, — 

ing but the difficulty of procuring pr 
modationa for com ej ing him to I i d me 

from sai and t.»kmu r him on with m 

introdu . when l returned north. 

Prom ^n- Lion we again took our land t, 

mi board, and reached tin- pis d the 

the third da] >■ 6 milt - ioul 
Augustine. The land, I find, In rtility as 

nth,— tin- Hammocks d < \- 

tensh d .mii ti land of a better quality. 

From this plai •<> the i cruising 

down Tomoko, in themidsl of shoals of all 

9 or t miles in l N T i « » 1 1 until 

Halifax riv( goon, or arm of t: —when we 

a bore up south, straight asa line could awn, 

ll miles to the habitation of Mrs, C\kk, a widow 

the western shore. Her 

grove of Orange trees — principally the "hitter si 

ille)— loaded with fruit in high . and at 

the same time in flower. Here, also, I d 
species of Myritft, and a whit- /> /// Recoil- 

am only telling you a part of th I have seen 

many other new plants, and fine things, too tedious to 
mention. The night was spent with the widow ; and the 



227 

following evening we landed safely at the Ruins of New 
Smyrna, — about 16 miles further south, and the same 
distance from any settlement. A short distance south 
of Mrs. Carr's, wc floated over acres of the Ruppia 
maritima, attached to a soft bottom of mud, — and cither 
floating, or withdrawing under water, as best comported 
With its pleasure. Like the Yallis?ieria, the peduncles 
supporting the flowers are spiral, — some of them 10 
inches in length. The flowers arc unequivocally her- 
maphrodite, and singularly constructed. I have amused 
myself for hours in attending to them : indeed it re- 
quires some time, and very close examination, to be- 
come acquainted with the fructification of this aquatic ; 
nor have I seen it accurately described,— although I 
have no doubt it is the same plant mentioned by all 
European Botanists, as a native of Europe. A few 
miles further south, the river — heretofore wide, straight, 
and uninterrupted— begins to wind among numerous 
small Islands, covered with the ever verdant "Mangrove^ 
(Rhizophora Mangle, L.). One of these small Islands 
has been selected (time immemorial,) and occupied by 
the large Grey Pelican. Thousands were here assem- 
bled, feeding their young. The nests, composed sim- 
ply of "marsh grass" ( Spartina glabra,) covered the 
Man grove trees as thick as apples. We landed among 
them : and such a screaming as they made, could 
hardly be exceeded by the Indians. I was surprised to 
find among them, great numbers of the "Forked tailed 
Hawk" These soon soared aloft, and disappeared. 
Here and there, also, was a hungry Buzzard, watching 
to catch the oflal. Such a rendezvous of feathered 
gentry I have never seen, — unless it be the Cormorants, 
which roost by hundreds of thousands on a sandspit, 
running off from the north end of Talbot Island: But 
then Cormorants alone,— and not Hawks, Crows, 

Buzzards, Cranes, Curlews, &c. But I have reached 



an 

last page, without Baying any 1 1 1 i 1 1 ir about New 
Smyrna, — which wi I ' my 

'ility of the soil, ti. itua- 

tion, and Ibe extent of fanner imj 

my expectation. The fa all n 

built with those fine materials pecoli country; 

but baked walla and ehimneyi alon matt 

ixuriant has 
,), thai it was difficult 
without cutting our waj . Where th. i 

m triumph, W€ lind < 'abbairr I 

maeji P tto 15 feet in h< ight 

With i I in this 

my present situ Bcultiei itand in the way. 

l not in the a f the ' 

land from thi 
without momri ng a to hia . — as 

1 find I .mi </ 1 ti r th tin* l i se* 

bim. Perhaps] may, 
contrive through the ag< 

.— itli 
quit *. .1 ohn's, or both. 

is only 90 mil 
Indian river 80 south. To t ; 
commui n hole n aj : Littl 

than one-eighth 

to conned the * y in- 

formed j ou ti. ild be i with 

Indian riv. r. Ib.u I 

m\ i bei in this in to 

think i i .11 be ti. I this 

Lugustine — perhaps to St 
lmu to make rapid mt 

P. s. \\\ bealth has iraj . — as has alwa] 

the case, n ben mind and body ha 
employed. 



229 

St. Mary's, May 27, 1817. 
My dear Sir : I wrote to you twice from Fort George, 
once from St. Augustine, and lastly from Tomoko. — 
Should all these communications be received, with this 
enormous one immediately in the rear, they will alto- 
gether amount to something very much like a bore: but 
that is nothing to me, — as I have fulfilled my engage- 
ment of writing "freely and frequently." For several 
years I had no correspondence with the friends of my 
youth, and my country. Some had gone the way of all 
the earth : to me they were all gone ! When I left the 
University of Pennsylvania, I calculated that I had 
formed a league of friendship with a group of young 
men, which would be lasting as life. But how uncer- 
tain and unstable are all things in this little busy dirty 
world of ours! I have not heard from one of them since 
I have resided in Georgia. I suppose they think I have 
become a negro, or something worse. Now, although 
I have since formed a pretty extensive correspondence 
among strangers, in the south, &c. the opening of a 
correspondence with you, has been among the most 
pleasing little events I have experienced for a long 
time ; — as the universal neglect of all my old friends had 
made me a little melancholy, and sometimes almost 
vexed me. This, I hope, will be some apology for my 
writing so carelessly and foolishly. On our return to 
St. Augustine, we had some reason to congratulate our- 
selvea in not having fallen in with any of our red 
brethren, while at New Smyrna, — as they manifest a 
disposition rather hostile towards Americans, and have 
attempted a re-settlement a little further south, on 
Indian river. A number of them were frolicking in St. 
Augustine, and were not backward in disclosing their 
sentiments. These Florida Indians (Seminoles) are 
not in much repute with any nation: they are indolent 
and perverse, — and are looked upon with contempt 

20 



230 

both by the Upper and Lower Creeks.* We returned 
from St. Augustine by a different route, — ascending 
North river 11 miles, and then by land tl 

tensive flat < . immediately on the a rd, — and 

had , m opportunity of teeing the whofc * of the 

/ r 'ins. We reached BL Mary's in the midst of 
delug rain, on the evening of die 96th. It 

with difficulty that I pn from 

ruction. I now liml that my t . or " Wild 

Sago/ 1 is nothing more d than ZamtapwrnUm, — 

Bee Babtbam, p. M.— > Could I have extended my excur- 
sion a little mora westerly, i should in all probability 
found many <'i B u 1 1 urt doubtful p] I am 

ha j)j»\ to say, that his antln u r, »"d in mOSl in- 

(l. Ee is m< a cog- 

iii.l you find his plants in the sftuatJQOS 

pointed out in his Travels, One of the m aor- 

dinarj of I 'graphical blunders, is i the 

mouth of t j— which h i - tin.* 

Atlantic bei n .« •! M w he 

could have made such ■ blunder is b and 

it has been copied by Mo 

The St. Mary's dischai I self betwe* n Cumberland 
and Amelia, 90 miles north of Talbot The waters of 
M[ river are disc I i>« tween tin- southern 

extremity of Amelia, and the northern 

TalbOt 1 -lands. 

8 llr. Viy 28. 
I Bailed from St. Mary's this morning; and we are 

now moving slowly along thi 'umberland Sound, 

♦Bautrvm haa inc wecUy confounded the Lower ('rocks with the 
Seminoles. The L< ic r (reeks would fed themselves very i 
ingulted by being ranked slong with the! d neighbors; whs 

arc, ncvorthcK MS, derived from them. 



231 

with every appearance of pleasant weather, and a pros- 
perous voyage. Cumberland Island is about 18 miles 
in length, and from 1 to 2 miles wide, — extending north 
and south. It contains but little good land : mostly 
Pine barren, and thin Live Oak Hammock. The 
southern extremity of this Island was formerly granted 
by government to General Greene. An elegant 
house, 4 stones high,* was erected afterwards by a Mr. 
Phineas aIiller, who married the widow, — and here a 
daughter of the famous Quaker General now resides. 
* * * But families, like nations, have their decline, 
— and sometimes they slip, and fall. — * * — For myself, 
I would tread lightly, and with solemnity, upon the 
grave of Mrs. jIiller. She was to me like a mother, 
when I first arrived — sick and a stranger, in a land of 
strangers. ****** 

In the dusk of the evening we crossed St. Andrew's 
Sound, between Cumberland and Jekyl Islands; but 
were soon afterwards obliged to anchor, in consequence 
of a heavy thunder squall. Jekyl Island is 9 miles in 
length, and contains a pretty large body of valuable 
calcareous Hammock. It is the property of one man, 
— Mr. Debignon, a Frenchman. I shall now go to bed, 
in a warm crowded cabin, — with plenty of fleas in 
company. 

May 29. Passing Jekyl, we cross St. Simon's Sound, 
about one mile wide. On the southern extremity of 
St. Simon's a neat light house has been erected, — 
where, however, as the trade has centered, it is of little 
importance. Few vessels come in here. The village 
of Brunswick stands a few miles to the S. W. at the 
mouth of Turtle river. This is the best inlet on the 

*Built of * Tappy" (oyster shells) — [Hispanice, Tapia, a mud 
wall, — or calcareous cement.] — and beautifully situated on a rifling 
ground. A fine garden adorns the front. The prospect is extensive 
and delightful. 



232 

coast, except Savannah: but the treble land on Turtle 
river being far inferior to that of the Alatamtiha— 
in quantity and quality — the trade centra at Darien. 
A number of raluable rtcli settlements are found on Bt 
Simon's. 4 WV I in the evening. 

place of much gn ater importance than it is 
at present Boi ks of < Iglbthospi 

still visible* They were of *• T ." — and them 

die light house has been construct 

Dorian, Misy 80. This city ie now improving pi 
rapidly; but itssituation i- ineligible, — both on account 
of ti, I "t' health. 1 \ isit, I 

KnuSPALO N -. W id«»w of Sp \ LDI1S 

of Thos. Spaldin'., th( 

;»!«• old la nc to : 

tsto v7, B I hom she well 

a of yore, he travelled in Fl 

-ays that Ins aCCOUttt Of the I i :i " 

. M SL 
Taking be stagt, this morning, I am 
after i pleasant nd*- of m< ne than tO mill 
sleepy — my pen bad- rnk and 
supposing that ivhal I have already written will I 
oi Miffici< at I ingth,— I concta id am i 

affectioi 

I\ S y first i n which I can sto\* m\ 

and baggage, will < me to Philadelphiay-~*hould 

■: n pp 9p rolls. 



Philad. Jum 19,1817, s E 

My dbai old pwbhd: Meeting with J. runt 

- 1. CoorKH, Esq. who jiist planted the S im in ( ■ • 

Bides here. 



233 

this morning, from your town, I embrace the opportu- 
nity to inform you that I am here, in 5 days from Savan- 
nah ; — but a prisoner on board, — and in momentary 
expectation of being sent back to the Quarantine 
ground; having past last evening without being aware 
of the regulations. This will be a terrible bore, after so 
short a passage, with all my collections on board; — 
some of which — and particularly your box of Live 
Oaks — will suffer by the delay. This day week, I ate a 
hearty breakfast in Savannah ; and yesterday morning 
at sunrise, I was 25 miles south of Cape Henlopen, — 
and in sight of this city last evening at 7 o'clock. We 
lay to, notwithstanding, one day, off Cape Hatteras, — 
with head winds and squalls. 

Pray come to Wilmington after your box of Live 
Oaks, &a immediately after you receive this; — in which 
time, quarantine or no, I shall be there, — as there is not 
a soul on board that has even a head-ache. I am in no 
humor fur writing. To have escaped the Indians in 
Florida, to run foul of a silly quarantine, so near home, 
is too bad. In haste, <5cc. 

P. S. 10 o'clock, A. M. Fortunately we have got 
clear; and I hope to be in Wilmington to-morrow 
evening. I have other articles for you, beside Live 
Oaks: So be sure and take a ride to see me as soon as 
possible,— in order that no time may be lost in talking 
over Florida, and other important matters. 



Wilmington, Del July 3, 1817. 
My dear Darlington : I regretted much not seeing 
you, after you had been at the trouble of coming down. 
My journey into the country was indispensable; and 
such is the situation of my affairs, that I see no pros- 
pect of visiting West Chester before the latter end of 

20* 



234 

August, or beginning of September. I have had no lei- 
sure to review any of my notes, — nor write to Mr. 
Elliott, to whom a letter is due. 

The Lire Oak which were brought on in the 

rvation, to show symptom 

decline: perhaps in pari for want of judgment in the 
managemei ad a 

want of prOj I. I am pi 

w ell \ ersed in the i ing plai nation ; 

but have ad had practice in horticulture, for want of 
leisure and the i renieni 

Should il be in \ OUr : 

calculate upon finding me a home on any day I 
this and the middle of the ensuing week. I ha i 

Linked at a plant BU Ce I Came fa I inin 

requi id I u ish i 

anxiously I i the ti 

a] >ng with me. I should not much reli 
menl and trouble that 

I ublical 

It OUght t<» be d<»n,' : 1 

- 
ability to render it ii ing t" the public. I still 

enjoy prcttj health ; but tl 

that I am afraid I shall suffer w ithout more actn 
It appeari mail, i 

such employment,) two or three tim< 

, &en this pi w ould suit me 

■r than writing —But I 

should be glad to consult ] kiouldl BTer be 

favored with the sight of you. I am, 

P. S. T am very anxious to >< e the venerable B 
tram. Before I left the Province, I red thro 

Mr. Fkaskk, an extract of a letter from him, in which he 
pointed out the habitat of several of his i c\v plants, — 
some of which I do not recollect to have seen in his 



235 

Travels. He informed me, in 1812, that these Travels 
had not been published under his own inspection ; but 
that he had by him all his original manuscripts, from 
which a more correct work might be compiled: — that it 
had always been his intention to publish a correct edi- 
tion, — but had neglected it until old age prevented. 
Colonel Hawkins had proposed to me to procure these 
manuscripts, and unite in the publication of a Topo- 
graphical account of the Creek countiy, &c. The death 
of Col. H. and afterwards the destruction of most of his 
valuable papers by fire, through the infernal villainy of 
the Savages (not Indians, J put a stop to this business, — 
and I fear has left a blank in the history of the Musco- 
gees, which will not soon be filled up correctly. 



Wilmington, August 7, 1817. 
Dear Sir ; Although I have progressed but a little 
way with my "Floridian Letters," 1 cannot well avoid 
informing you that I have just received along letter from 
Mr. Lambert, with all the Botanical news from t'other 
side of the water. He has forwarded a copy of Pcjrsh, 
along with his own works on the Pines and Cinchonas, — 
and informs me that many more will come as soon as 
he receives the packet I sent him from Savannah. 
Thus, he is so far as prompt as a general ; and should 
he continue so, with the aid I may expect to derive from 
Smith and Frazer, my Botanical Library may swell, 
in a few years, to the size of your own. But, notwith- 
standing all this good fortune, I feel most deucedly in 
the dumps. Some cursed little vexatious thing, or 
other, assails me almost every day, and keeps my mind 
in a continual state of distraction.* I almost wish to be 

[*Dr B. was at this time a good deal annoyed with some difficul- 
ties in the settlement of an Estate, in which he was collaterally in- 
led.] 



236 

driven from men to eat grass with the cows, until m 
years shall have passed over DM without beholding the 
face of man, — and my hairs become cm into 

turkey-buzzard's WlOgl — and my n. id- into alligator's 
claws. 

"As fun-him 's succeeded bj rain/' d 

I received ■ letter from in which 

he calls upon me for all the plants l may wish to have 
inserted in his work, "down to the end <>t' Decandr 
Will it do! be I" il for me to endeavor to the wind, 

and L r <"t ahead of him a little, — and then describe die 
remainder in my own work ; from which, he ma; 
tern ards quote ra 

I want all the advice, caution, counsel, aj 
you are bo well able to afford me; for I am all 
sinking under the mi I the in 

m putti up to. Should d ■ in the 

ruin of mj ' l must contri that 

y<»u in.i . 

wan v. 

1 do not find among the I me, that 

m \s bicfa there is some mention n 
nor the one written on mj d to t I — which, 

howev< r, may d< I contain any thing of importance. I 
also i' it on j our desk, or lost by the 8 notes I 

made from Pubsb : Bu1 this a ill be 
quence, when I receive the work. M i! in Phila- 

delphia, . thai the pad <»oks 

a ,i- stopped at the Custom-h i En- 

io thai 1 have been obliged to send up Lam- 
bert's letter, to prevent it from being broken o] 
Such a delay is mortifying. I have do time to write 
more, — and ask pardon for bai ing written at all, when I 
had nothing interesting to you to write about. I ana 

P. s. I to inform yen, that I have in my pos- 

session MUHLENBERG'S €hr*$$9$ : — whieh I BUppOSS you 



237 

have received before this time. I do more or less at 
my "letters" every day, — and may get on faster, when 
I get fairly under way. I am obliged to break off in 
the afternoons, on account of my breast: but if I had 
nothing to vex me I should get on much better. 



Wilmington, August 20, 1817. 

My Dear Sir: I found your letter of the 13th, with its 
enclosures, on my return from Philadelphia, the fol- 
lowing evening; and I now return you my sincere 
thanks for the interest you take in my anticipated work. 
Nothing but want of health shall prevent me from pur- 
suing this object ; but I am afraid imperious circum- 
stances will prevent its completion at so early a period 
as could be wislied. I was obliged to pay a hasty visit 
to the city, for the purpose of receiving my annual 
stipend, and of squaring off with the Navy Department. 
I returned as speedily as possible, with my head chock 
full of Florid Man letters, which I intended most rapidly 
to arrange, — when lo ! a letter awaited me, written by 
order of the Hon. Naval Secretary, inquiring whether 
the state of my health would permit me to take a cruise, 
as surgeon, in the Gulf of Mexico, on board the ship 
John Adams, — and requesting an answer by the return 
of mail! This put me in a dilemma. No time was to 
be lost. Thinks I to myself, if I now refuse to go, — al- 
though I could frame a pretty good excuse, — I cannot 
in future ask favors with so much confidence; — and 
then, again, the cold winter is approaching, and this 
cruise may really tend to the promotion of my health, 
as well as afford me opportunities for extending my 
knowledge of southern plants, — while I could take so 
much of my library and notes along with me, as to ena- 
ble me at least to go on in the framing of my "letters," 



238 

on board. At all ,1 immediately wrote that I 

would await the orders of the Sec h I have 

this day received ; and which of course allow me little 
time to delay. In about fl 

way i" join my brother Tar$ % at New fork. As it m 
your intention to pay n bortly, I h< i will 

find it convenient to come iron ly, and s< .■ my 

new i" m ibis pli shall be 

anxious to know whether yon sppr 
[have taken: and I have many things to you, 

which I have neither room nor leisure to say, In this 
letter. 
Alter getting through my business in tl 

rable Wi i ■ short i itit on my 

return h inced in the rale of 

years. 1 found him in the | 

all the bCUll mind -illiant a^ in the 

be w ith the little d< 
Florida,— and so into I In 

i \\hi<h he \ lling 

I w ith great relo* mutual 

wishes for ■ farther and mors intina acquaint- 

ance, Suoh, be Informed i 
that delightful country, that be i fl m I 
transported thither in I ams by night. My being 

able to confirm several of his doubtftil plants, i 
tremely gratifying to him; and he wished m< 
ioualythatl would return and find otheis of them t 
fore be descended to the grave. Aware of the suspi- 
cions which some entertain ol hi- . it was truly 
< me to re bow bis ti rn countenance 
brightened up at the vindication of his character, which 
I informed him I was prepared to 

am prepared tO make his Ixintana Camara a new spe- 
cies, without hesitation. I saw the true West In 
Camara in perfection; and I find it unequivocally dis- 
tinct from the Florida plant, — which I shall describe, and 



239 

send to him, under the name of Lantana Bartramii. It 
is an elegant plant. How and when, from the arrange- 
ment I have now been making, shall I be able to com- 
pensate Mr. Lambert! He has sent me, beside the 
works mentioned in his letter, of which I informed you, 
Humboldt's Treatise, Be Distributione Geographicd 
Plantar um. I shall no more than have leisure, at pre- 
sent, to answer his letter: and I despise paying my 
debts with promises. I fear, alas, that I am disappointing 
your expectations, and drawing too much upon your 
time and generosity: But I must repeat my wish to see 
you, and know your sentiments, before I go. Your ob- 
servations on the plan of my "Floridian Letters," meet 
my approbation exactly; but I am not quite certain 
that the few which I have already prepared will agree 
precisely with it. When you see them, you can judge : 
— and judge I hope you will, with the most perfect and 
unrestrained freedom. 

There are many inaccuracies in the work of Pursh, 
— particularly in regard to southern plants: so there is, 
indeed, in me work even of Mr, Elliott ; — and so 
there would doubtless be in any work I might attempt 
to publish. It must be by correcting one another, that 
the science will be gradually improved. But some of 
Elliott's blunders are from pure carelessness, or lazi- 
ness; and I shall therefore very freely — though in the 
most friendly manner — take notice of them. Before I 
received your letter, I had written to Mr. E. and in- 
formed him of the demand for his Sketch, &c. I will be 
more particular in my next letter to him. I have since 
received through his kindness, a packet of specimens 
collected for me by Mr James Jackson in West Georgia; 
but nothing new to me in it. 

I, too, have been disappointed in the work of Dr. 
Muhlenberg. It is rather bald for a " Descriptio Ube- 
rior;"— and would not have been published thus, had 



'J 10 

the author lived. What is to become of I neial 

work ? I have written to the son about it, but r 
no answer. J feel aj of having 

sent tin* eld gentleman specimens i t newpianl^ — • 
of which, from the i Lion, I have not now in my 

Herbarium. Should these fall into .mds of 

BtraDgeiS, I all the 

credit, which the old I uld hai me, 

— but tli , or mi- 

perfectly described. 



17. <8 s J idam$ i 
\ ) . I 89, LC 

: 1 arrived I 

that this 

I will 

months ; and that sin- w ii 
for 1- -hat ing during tl 

time little or do intercourse with any shore. U\ 
such circum N 

■ w hich I it* and ale much 

stroii ad I have do1 h< rmining to 

ip, at all events, — ; . uld I me my 

commission. You will, I think, readily 
that such a cruize would in all probability injure my 
health more than the climate of Wilmington : 
cutting me off tV m my family and pursuits, without a 
remuneration adequat risk and 

That I did not decline this cruize sooner, is much to be 
!, — as it may stigmatize me with whimsicality: 
but we cannot always judge correctly. There i 
ficcr here, who has had one cruize in the Gulf of 
Mexico ; and he reports it to be the m« try and 

hazardous of all his cruizing. Had Capt IIenly been 



241 

here, I should have first begged leave of absence, and 
perhaps have gone myself to Washington : But as he is 
absent, and may be for some time, I wrote yesterday to 
the Department, and very plainly stated my objections 
to remaining in this vessel, — intimating my willingness 
to surrender my commission, if further indulgence could 
not with propriety be granted. I do not feel well : and 
really, to be bamboozled about as I have been for some 
time past, in such a variety of ways, is enough to make 
any man sick, or crazy, — or both. 

I spent about an hour with Z. Collins, as I came 
through Philadelphia. I was delighted with him. We 
immediately recognized each other as old acquaintances 
(we had never seen each other before,) — and entered 
rapidly upon the subject of Botany, in less than a minute. 
But until I can get this Navy concern adjusted, I cannot 
think of Z. Collins, or Botany, or any thing else. 

I shall no doubt be here long enough for you to 
answer this letter; and a word of comfort would be 
grateful, flowing from the lip of friendship. I only 
wish I may be able to return suitably your kindness, — 
and am, &c. 



Wilmington, September 13, 1817. 

Dear Sir: I have this day heard from the Navy De- 
partment, and have had all my requests granted, and 
something more; being continued under full pay until 
I report myself fit for service. I arrived here a few- 
days ago, on leave of absence from Capt. Henly. Not 
having heard from the Department, I began to be in 
doubt for the result, — and intended setting out for 
Washington to-morrow, had I not heard from there. I 
bare been quite unwell, but begin to feel better; — and 
having my mind at rest once more, I hope to be able to 

21 



242 

guard against the recurrence of pulmonic symptoms,— 
and intend paving them a visit at Head Quartern, be- 
fore long. • •.•••.• 

Z. Collins wrote to me before I returned; and I 
ceived at the same time a notice of mv haying b< 
elected a corresponding member i 
Natural Soiencet of Phila lelpbia" — ao institution I had 
not lu-anl of, tx Ify residence at New Fork 

was nut altogether unproductive <»t' Botanical inf 
It has enabled me to add several plants to my I 
rium, — and to examine others which I was anxious to 
compare with southern ones, in passing through N 
Jersey, I fell in with the P tan, — sod 

inn satisfied that it ii i cificall] m the 

Boutbern /' mm. Many plants that < 
quently to bai r the ol a, 

in the imi \ icinity . in 

my (.pinion, been well described i>y him; andsoi 
c\<'n appear to bai i omitted alto . — not- 

withstanding it was bo long bis botanizing ground. I 
found a Cyperu* with esculent tubers, on -land, 

which doea no( i with tu , and 

it is very widely distinct from ELL 

one l found in Georgia. 1 1 i 

M urubnbbrg' s phymatode*. A letter from Mr. Elliott 

awaited my arrival. H I descripti ral 

plants, which l rear I shall be I >o late in furnishing, — 
lie corrected the last proof-sheet of his 4th numl 
the 21st ultimo. ••••.• 

I wrote to Lambket from New fork. The first thing 

I now attend to, must he to put him Up 

specimens: after which, go on with my "L 
as the state of my health will permit. I remain yours. 
/See, however, Dr. ToRREY*! North American ( 'vpor.ire.u ,"' — 
where the C. repca$, Ell. C. phijinUtdcs, Muhl. and C. tub tot s. 
Pursh, are considered as identic*!.] 



243 

Wilmington September 27, 1817. 

My Dear Sir: Yours dated yesterday was handed to 
me by your brother last evening. I have not been idle 
since my return from New York : but the state of my 
health has kept me pretty much from my desk, and 
from close application to any thing. I begin to feel 
better, and shall not abandon the M Florida Letters." — 
Our friend Collins also wrote to me yesterday, and 
says he will pay me a visit in a few days. It will be to 
me an interesting visit; for this gentleman, I find, is an 
acute and accurate investigator of plants. He has not, 
it is true, been flouncing from one extremity of the U. 
States to the other — giving to each plant an investiga- 
tion of live minutes, for the purpose of making a book : 
but, for the love of the science, he investigates closely 
as far as he goes. 

The more I consult Pursh, the less interesting I find 
him. In all those great families of plants which re- 
quired to be re-investigated, he is a mere copyist; and 
yet informs you that he has seen the plants alive. He 
may have seen many, or most of them ; but I am sure 
he failed to investigate them, — and was only traditionally 
acquainted with them. Look at his account of the 
Scirpi. One description will serve for 3 or 4, or half a 
dozen ; and yet I would bet a trifle that he might be 
shown three radically distinct species of this genus 
which he would pronounce identical. See, also, his 
description of Scirpus capitatus— beginning and ending 
with, " spica subghbosa." Scirpus ovatus, Willd. and 
S. capitatus, L. arc the same : yet Pursh has seen them 
both alive ! He has scarcely in a single instance, that I 
have noticed, mentioned those characters, in this family, 
by which the species are to be truly discriminated. — 
MUHUHBBM'l descriptions are rather confused, in 
general, but of this plant pretty good: but he is une- 
quivocally mistaken, in supposing the S.tuberculosus, of 



•J 11 

Mx. to be the same plant. The seed, tal and 

bristles, are different Elliott's account of this family 
I think the beflf.*— But I am auari- that it 
Bad, than to mend, faults ; and have no doubt but that 
any thing I could du— or my betters— WOUM al>o be 

ible of further improvement 

How are you coming on with your CmtmUgm] I 
wish jrou would extend it into a work i it of 

Bigelow. at once. I am rare then- j> plenty of Deedto 
mend most of th eriptions of plants aln 

known. 

Judge Cooper has been analyzing halt ■ pom; 
the rooti of the x ■/</,— and obtained but IS dwt 
giSL of a brown fa •••ula. With all due deferenc 
him, ami his knowledge, — the Florida i under- 

stand the analyzation of this plant better thi loes; 

— or the root Itself must have changed since it 
Flon 

1 bare written in haste, for fear jour brother should 
begone, — and l fear hasdlj intelligibly: but make the 
I of it. l am most sincerely 



Wilm (h-tobcr 30, 1-1 

Ml Pkak Sir: I might perhaps have written t<> 
before now, and reported I i, — bad it not been my 

wish first to ascertain my destiny for the winter, li 
mation received from Washington this morning has de- 
cided that matter. I go out in the 
along with Rodney & Co. I am not allowed to 
where ; but to a country, and to places in that country, 
which (judging after the manner of men,) will not only 
be best calculated to suit the state of my health, 

[*For a more recent and full elucidation of the species of this 
family, — see Torret's " North American Cvperaccac."] 



245 

(already somewhat impaired by the cold, and perhaps 
too close confinement,) — but afford me a good oppor- 
tunity of attending to the productions of said country, 
which are little known. 

I have been at Washington, and talked the matter all 
over at the Navy Department. It was highly gratifying 
to me, to find among the great folks, at Head Quarters, 
some lovers of science ; and that I was not so much of 
a stranger to them as I had supposed. They took all 
the interest in my situation and views that I could 
wish, — informing me that I was entitled to any indul- 
gence that I required, which came within their limits to 
grant ; that I had been selected for this very cruise, on 
account of my knowledge of Natural History, — did the 
state ol my health and other circumstances admit. In 
short, the result of the interview was this: — We wish 
you to go this cruise, — but leave it entirely to yourself 
to determine whether your health and interests will be 
promoted by it. — The only difficulty with me, then was, 
the extent and length of it. It was not then known, at 
the Navy Department, but what the Commissioners 
might be sent round Cape Horn. 

This matter being now settled, I received a letter this 
morning, marked private, — stating every thing neces- 
sary for me to know, to enable me to decide upon going. 
I have answered that I will go. You, I think, would 
say go ; and all my friends here, say go: and Rodney, 
in particular, (who has not yet received his final in- 
structions,) has all along been anxious that I should go. 
If you were here, I would tell you more,— and perhaps 
I might, as it is ; but you will excuse me. 

The "Columbian Institute ," I think, promises to do 
something. I am to be furnished with a copy of the 
litution, by the President, Dr. Cutbush, (the oldest 
Surgeon in the Navy,) to enable me to promote its hi- 
ts. There la a division of the society which attends 

21* 



246 

exclusively to Botany. They have a library, in which 
they have the best modern works, PtntSH, cVrc. and a 
collection I mens. But perhaps you kimw all 

this. In an excursion with Mr. WATTJ i (Lihra- 

rian U) CoDg Mid in tin- midst of th< 

anew - s . — with a Dumber of plants ool found in 

PxrasR. J have described tin- fitejrp**, and seal it to Z. 
Collins. In this department of botany, Prasi is w 
than no authority at alL Mm s good, as t. 

he goes. Pubsb is a mere copyist, without 

rectly, (unless when he ana to change names) — 

although be basthe impudence to instill os,al the 
of every description, with "•.•." instead of*.*/ It 
would require an mngelto discriminate in- pi I am 

sorry the worh of Puasn fell into the hand- < t Mr. El- 

told him it <>nl\ 

to mi-lead him, and lessen bis m IS an 

American I I rn d, 

Kuan ii has been sum 

. w ithoui benefiting 
the science. Betfe r burn all, an< * . 

Should l not see j ou, l b< pe to b< 
1 have a volume to write ; but neither time n m.— 

I have been making ilution among tb< 8 i. I 

wish I had time to tell you about it. I hai 
Collins about it. H< 

p, s. I bs t to 1. 1 m i I r. in the 

Franklin,— under the C ML 



Wilmington, Norn mh r 1", 1817, 

My Dbab Fbjenj) : 1 had the I 1 
yours of the 5th, on the ensuing day: and the same 
my orders arrived from Washington, to | limit 

delay to Norfolk, and join th The let! 



247 

therefore, will not be in time ; but they are not impor- 
tant, — and may as well be retained in your hands until 
I return. I suspect there is still another missing,— un- 
less the one you speak of having lately received be 
dated Tomoko — which may be the case. Those I have, 
are packed up along with all my notes, — to enable me 
to go on with "the letters," on the voyage. Since I have 
had an opportunity of examining the work of Pursh, I 
feel more than ever stimulated to attempt something, 
without loss of time, — although I fear you over-rate my 
qualifications. As our venerable botanical friend, 
Bartram, will perhaps be somewhat disappointed, in 
not seeing or hearing from me, I should be glad if you 
would call on him, the first opportunity, and make an 
apology for me. It is my intention to do him all possi- 
ble justice, in my notices of Florida plants. The Lan- 
tana which he discovered, I have called L. Bartramii — 
foliis ovatis, obtusis, crenatis ; caule herbaceo, angulato, 
aculeato, piloso, ramoso ; Jioribus capitato-umbeUatis, 
foliosis. This is a beautiful plant, attaining to the height 
of 6 feet, — and abounds along the sea coast of Florida. 
The account given of it, by Bartram, is very correct. 
It may come very near the L. aculeata y of S. America. 
I still hear nothing from Mr. Elliott; and feel uneasy 
about him. I hope you will lose no time in preparing 
your Flora of West Chester ; and I should wish that you 
would make it somewhat similar to that of Bigelow. 
The descriptions of so many plants — and particularly 
grasses — require improving, that I hope you will not 
shrink from the undertaking. Should I return in time, 
I might render you some assistance in arranging the 
^es ; but a close attention will soon render you 
familiar with them. We have really no work (Muhlen- 
berg excepted, as far as it goes,) that is worth referring 
to, — or in which the descriptions are sufficiently accu- 
rate, to distinguish the species. 



248 

It is now midnight. Within 3 hours I expect to be on 
my way to Elkton, — from whence I proceed, via Balti- 
more, to Norfolk. Rodney sets out to-morraw. Al- 
though the state of my health is not such as to rend 
my situation alarming. — yet, m lit- drew*" 

stances is uncertain,— there can be no harm in ju^t 
mentioning, thai in caae l should never return. I las 
all my Botanical < m; who, with the aid of 

Z. Collins, must make the beat of them. It is with 

shame and regret, however, l must o .that both 

my Herbarium and N Dtdd be found in such i 

of eonfusiou, that I feat n<> one could make much 

them : and therefore ( hope t<> have tie 

them myself, — at w kth i 

beat thanks for th regard you nai 

mai ; for me, l conclude— and remain ti 

r. s. I shrill <•< rtainlj d< t oegli d h r i by 

every opportunity that m in which I ma] 

any thing worthy -i youi communicate. I 

rr( ipri tcati j ntiments on tb< | ad 

from s knon h Botany ; and sa 

speak in that w a\ . But I v it you are not, at v 

interesting period, (like ?n>\j a member 
The ensuing session, \ suspect, prill be uncommonly 
interesting,— from the political topk South 

America, which will probably be d >d- 

m-.v goes ria Washington, the Congi ul 

for a week, or more 5— ao thai a letter might reach so 

Adieu ! 



U. S. Ship Congress, ( Norfolk J N09. 'JO, 1-17. 
My Dear Friend: Precisely as I predicted the 
before I left Wilmington, — a letter, accompanied with the 
4th number of Mr. Elliott's work, arrived in that 



249 

place the day after I left it ! By an extract from the 
above-mentioned letter, transmitted by Mrs. B. I find 
that a quantity of his Sketch will be immediately for- 
warded to Philadelphia, directed to my charge, — agree- 
ably to an arrangement made about two months ago. 1 
have written to Z. Collins, to act for me in this business 
in Philadelphia; and to J. D. and R. P. through Mrs. B. 
in Wilmington. You can therefore be supplied, either 
in Wilmington or Philadelphia; and I shall feel much 
gratified (for the sake of Mr. Elliott,) if you will pro- 
mote the sale of this work, in your vicinity, as much as 
possible. On account of the mortality in Charleston, 
Mr. E. was obliged to remove to Sullivan's Island, — 
which produced the delay I had been complaining of. 
He has written for such descriptions of plants as I can 
furnish him, from the end of the 4th number down to the 
end of Icosandria, — which will complete the 5th number, 
and Jirst volume ; which he wishes to have ready for the 
printer by the latter end of this month,— when he will 
be obliged to attend the Legislature, in Columbia. I 
regret that I cannot now send hirn a description of 
several Icosandrous plants, — as Cactus, Myrtus, &c. — 
The Myrtus (latifolia) is mentioned in the introduc- 
tion to Bartram's Travels. By straining hard, I might 
have sent him an account of the above plants before I 
left Wilmington ; but, wanting the stimulus of a letter 
from him, it was not attended to. I hope, however, 
soon after my return from the south, to include them in 
my " Florida Letters." I have sent him, since my 
arrival here, a more full account of the Lantana, than in 
my haste, I sent to you. Here I am, in the ward-room 
of the U. S. Ship Congress, surrounded by ten or a 
dozen as decent officers as, I suspect, ever adorned a 
national vessel. I am much pleased with them, and 
I my situation quite comfortable. Two good mates 
are ordered: one is on board, and the other, I hope, 



250 

will be in a short time. I have nearly comph t« -d my 
stores and medicines, — which have kepi me very cl< 
occupied since I came on board. I have laid in I 

crui-c <>! !> months and KM) men ; but (apt Sinclair 

calculates u\><<n returning in May. I fear, from informa- 
tion v. that we shall nol Bail !>• 
first of December. It is rumored that we shall lt<> up to 
Annapolis, I in the l» . and tin? 
Commissionets ; and that we leai place about the 
38th. Possibly thi^> information may !>'• incorrect I 
hope it i- ; as it will produce unn< py delay. — 
1 have felt my health im] since my arrival, and 
actil 

On my pa from Blktonto Baltim >re, I 

acquainted with the "Chevalier I sea," — 

who, known t«> you, I \n a- j u i th 

hi- plain od deal of botanical 

with him. I boold fa id me a ri 

. -hut \s I the climat 

I spent one day in Baltimore,— mg acq 

with Nil r.s.— and our v ^ ho, I 

hai e n<> doubt, h ill pi as] am 

certain he will !"• amusing, and eccentric, on the i 

Be will la] in I ir the mind : 

and I am told th.it h . — and 

if we require it, give us th s I Gr * • • *, 

actlj . Hi- knowledge of the i language ms 

of much importance. Be translated the Expotiii* 

V\-\:\ SBXDON, — which y«»u mmv h, (l in the pa] 

Nothing has yet occurred to render the p I this 

cruize unpleasant, — except what naturally arises from 
being so long separated from my family. Do, when 

you have an opportunity, remember me to Dr. Clea- 
ver, — and BUCh other of our Philadelphia friends as may 
not have forgotten me ; — and whom I have not had lei- 
sure to visit since my return from Georgia. 



251 

Not having been inside of a theatre for about 8 years, 
I attended last night — principally for the sake of seeing 
Cooper perform. I was amused. It would give me 
great pleasure to hear from you before we sail. In the 
mean time, I am truly yours. 



U. S. Ship Congress, Hampton Roads, Dec, 3, 1817. 

My Dear Friend : As we have not sailed so soon as 
was expected, and as you have done me the favor to 
request to hear from me often, — although I have little of 
interest to communicate, — I will send you a Cape letter. 
I wrote to you on the 20th, since which time, having got 
a little through my hurry in laying in stores, &c. and 
become familiarized with the ship, — I have been amus- 
ing myself in arranging the " Florida Letters." 

Since yesterday we have had a fine wind, and are 
only detained for want of Capt. Sinclair's final orders, 
— which ought to have reached us several days ago: 
but, from foul weather, or some cause, two Washington 
mails arc due. I hope we shall go to sea to-morrow ; — 
for continuing here, this cold weather, — neither at sea 
nor on shore (as the sailors express it,) — is rather un- 
comfortable and tiresome. 

The first port we shall touch at, will probably be 
Madeira, — from whence I will, of course, write you, 
should there be any possible opportunity. I will also 
further state to you, in confidence — (for, if confidence 
cannot be placed in such men as you, there can be no 
such thing in the world — )that this vessel may go round 
Cape Horn : but this will depend upon circumstances 
not yet known to the Commissioners themselves.- 
Should this be the case, some one or more of them 
(along with myself, I hope,) may go across from Buenos 
Ayres to Chili. After all, it is just as likely we shall 



233 

return the ensuing Hay. Nothing baa been orm 

thai seemed calculated to promote the into this 

cruise. The Commissioners are well furnished with all 

works thai could be collected, which throw Light on the 

interesting country which it is our object to visit; ami 

they have not even neglected works i I Natural Hist 

ami Science. Judge Blaxd says that he will now lay 

aside, for a while, the dry pursuit- < t l. 

( //>•//-// and lintany! it gives me great pleasu 

add, further, (and perhaps J menti m d it in my last 

letter) — that a e have a fin r <»ll 

of them men ol intellig a ith m< 

Science, — Independent of their nautical learning and 

skill. All Beem animated arith the pr 

tributing something, durii 

(as it may be — which will i i the 

h(»r or or Intere I of their cot 

We hai b in th< a ard .. is Lieut I Jeut 

of llariii iling-ra 

one I •— the latter great characti r has b 

transferred to my department [shall i himin 

the cock-pit, and ti it duty from th 

Commanding our COt I, — which he said he wasan- 

thorized to do! But the cry is this moment, (4 P. 

all hands mi '/'•'— I have not another moment to 

>n.— as l hai 6 ther !■ I finish. 

SfOUrS, a ith nn,il>,it< ■■; HI. 



1 s S t 
Harbor >>/ Ri<> ie J J SO, H18. 

Ill Dear Fkiknp: Ihavejusl finished a Long 

to Mrs. B. and von come next on my li^t of poo* 

dents. It was not known to mo until after I had written 
my last letter from Norfolk, that this a 



253 

upon as the first port we should enter,— unless the Cape 
de Verd Islands should chance, from the state of the 
winds, to fall conveniently in our way. This not hap- 
pening, we arrived here on the evening of the 28th, 
after a long passage of 53 days,— in which we experi- 
enced our full share of heads and calms ; and had not 
the good fortune to speak a single American vessel. — 
Our passage from the Equator — which we crossed on 
the 16th, has been pleasant. The usual ceremonies, on 
this great event, were not omitted. The old ludicrous 
Neptune boarded us in great style, — complaining bit- 
terly of the dustiness of the roads, in these regions, pro- 
ducing a dryness in his throat. He and his family were 
treated to a few bottles: but, to be brief on this sub- 
lime subject, — the whole business was conducted with 
the utmost order and decorum. 

At 10, A. M. yesterday, I first landed in South 
America,— on an Island outside the harbor of Rio. It 
is not a little curious to observe, that the first two plants 
which met my observation, I had been familiar with in 
the south of Georgia, and in E. Florida: viz. Ruppia 
maritima (growing in the water,) and Ipomaea orbicula- 
ris, of Elliott (on the sandy beach). Of the complete 
identity of these plants, I have not the smallest doubt, — 
as I am too familar with them to make any mistake. 
But I am up to my eyes in investigating others not be- 
fure known to me; and with which the Island most 
plentifully abounds. Among others, I have just made 
out the Malpighia crassifolia, a very beautiful shrub; — 
and that elegant parasite, Tillandsia lingulata, — which 
I hope to convey alive, and in full bloom, to the United 
States. We let go our anchor here at half past one P. 
M. yesterday; and this morning I visited the capital of 
Brazil, — of which, at present, I shall say nothing. — 
ry respect and attention is paid to us by the Portu- 
guese authorities, — and by the commanders of vessels 

22 



9H 

of war, in port, — consisting of Austrians and English : 

and I am almost continually interrupted I 

coming on board— to whom it is MO r m all to 

show attention,— as they generally wish t 

of the ship. The Eing is crowned on Ike Mb 

proximo; but i ulatc upon sailm liat 

period. 

The Portuguese still hold p ion of Montevideo 

(on Iai Plata j; and the talk i-, that tl, ml t-» hold 

it, — and arc Bending OB more tl r that purpose. — 

We were the first t<» communicate the newsbf the death 
of the /' m Ohai tained d BngU 

merchant . — B r which they have i>< tog 

minute guns, and maU I irrible fuss, both in lbs 

harbor and on ihore. But I bare had jret but a poor 
opportunity of obtaining any thin 
detail "i news, l hai i mostly occup • 

ing to be nantic ; 

and lid . rette l i togly tl I In 

drawing and sketching. Had l the talents of Dr. Si 
\, l irould 

\ DM it bflPB, arul pfOM it l! 
Ami | i lures ^i- it | 1 :<-." 

In a Short time I shall SSCend a mountain, in the 

vicinity of the capital, be sboi •• 2000 feet high* 

January Ml. ] ly Btllt 

that I have not ventured I ,; :i> morning. 

My health has been much improved in the ' ut 

I find it oeo confinement on 

board, to i i with caution. Wo have not yet had 

any disease worth noticing; and I am well convinc 
that the excellent provisions, j, ami internal regu- 

lations on board, have contributed much I 
serving health in this crowded community. In looking 
over what I have written, I feel aim . d to 

transmit it. Arriving in a place so novel, after a long 



255 

passage, and occupied with so many objects altogether 
new and interesting, has confused my weak brain, 
and this must be my excuse, should you feel disap- 
pointed in reading this letter. We are preparing to re- 
ceive the American Minister (Mr. Sumpter,) onboard; 
and owing to that, and other matters, I can write no 
more to-day. 

February 1. Yesterday afternoon was spent on shore, 
in a rich situation for botanizing: and a more extensive 
excursion is arranged for to-morrow, — no less than to 
ascend the afore-mentioned mountain (3 miles distant), 
said to be 2*200 feet high. Rodney and Brackenridge 
arc to accompany me. 

February 4. I have been variously and agreeably 
occupied since the 1st inst. but have not yet ascended 
the mountain. Instead of ascending the mountain, I 
have traced the Aqueduct, which supplies the city with 
water, from its source to its termination. It is a stupen- 
dous work ; but of no great importance. This day, I have 
had a peep at Royalty, in the Palace Royal; and as it is 
Ash-Wednesday, narrowly escaped bowing to the Host 
—which is carried about in great style. We shall sail 
for St. Catharine's, in 3 or 4 days; — from whence, 
should opportunity offer, you shall hear from me again. 
I remain in haste, yours. 

P. S. February 7. We sail to-morrow for St. Catha- 
rine's. Yesterday I saw (in the estimation of the 
vulgar,) the greatest event that has ever taken place on 
this side the water; — no less than the crowning of the 
Prince Regent. I have only time and room to say, that 
I had a good view of all the great folks belonging to the 
house of Braganza, — and was amused with the show, as 
I would be at a good farce. 



an 

V. S. Ship Cong 
At Sea, Lat. 27°,4(y 8U-X g. 46 , 69 R 

/ ruury 11, 1818. 

My dear Fiui nee I hare eat 

pressing heat at A' Janeiro, an thed the pure 

air of <<i<i ocefcn, a little Rirl rth, — my spirit- 

to i lire here, than I shall 

have after ire reach die /. P , I will fill op an In 
ofr two in writing to j thus make up, 1 hope, in 

some i k and omissions of my I 

letter, dated a1 Rio. 

Although I bai •• i 
frontier of < reor quentlj 

cury, in Pahrenl 

Janeiro, with the m< rcury flacl a W° and 

K5 1,, insuj ; 

Op] This fl W ith I 

all hand* <<w board, — or I should bai <l that 

the state i g confi 

\ me peculii 
influence "t heat in tal 
nothing about it But eren when the sun > 
clouds, it w a- in take th 

model, walking, without bufferinj lv 

from < iration : and I 

bended sii :i when q< , of 

the sun. b thi^ 'ho 

air being loaded with m tistun be 

one rgfa hut little rain fell during our 

stay. The morning loudy, 

ami sometimes rainy ; but v 
in before noon — when (he weather becan 
sky, — ami not unfrequently a tin. 
(rarely accompanied with much wind,) would the 

ining. I regret to state that om Baromei 
order, — and not to be depended upon for making any 



257 

experiments or observations. But notwithstanding the 
heat of Rio, it has the character of being healthy. To 
this character it may be in some measure entitled.— 
Bilious epidemics, of every grade, appear to be un- 
known. But the citizens in general do not exhibit a 
healthy appearance. Many of the ladies, who live 
well and take little exercise, are corpulent; but never- 
theless want the appearance of vigorous health. — 
Judging from appearances, as well as from my own 
feelings, I was not greatly surprised on being told that 
haemoptisis was not uncommon: but I could not learn 
that it was often followed by pulmonary consumption. 
The negroes are subject to a dreadful disease of the 
legs. They become of an enormous size; and, to be 
brief for the present, very much resemble the back of 
a young alligator. Respecting the cure, I obtained no 
information; but I recollect having under my care a 
case of this description, when I attended the Poor 
House of Now Castle county, in 1808 or 9. 

N > writer that I have ever read, has conveyed to us 
any thing like a correct idea of the face of the country 
on the Brazilian coast. 

In approaching closely the entrance to the harbor of 
Rio de Janeiro — within which, at the distance of only 3 
or 4 miles, is found a city more populous than Philadel- 
phia, — not a habitation is to be seen: and the country 
presents as wild and uncultivated an appearance as it 
did on the day of its discovery. Mountains, terminating 
in cones that intercept the course of the clouds, strike 
the eye in every direction, and present an appearance 
more grand and picturesque than can well be imagined. 
We enter through a nanow strait, of only one mile 
wide, into a spacious harbor, — on the west side of 
which, situated in two narrow valleys, and skirting the 
hills, stands the modern capital of Brazil. The 
churches, convents, and other buildings, all suddenly 

22* 



258 

opening to view amid the rude surrounding seen 
appear like enchantment. My attention to Other sub- 
jects has prevented me from attending particular); 
this city; but I suspect that it will rank in riches, and 
even splendor, with many in Europe. The str 
general!] | tommon fault of being too nar 

— but they ajTS | D . Tilt built 

of the same mat irial, and . \y less than two 

stories in height. (Mi traveller in 

Brazil, erroneously informs us that "thedvi 
generally <d* one story, only.**) Ti 

0IOUS squares and tie- puhlie buildi:. 
advanta 

Tie- mountains, their comp . and prodi 

-t t<> me, than the city 

u 1th all R ilt ]f. l 

mountains, l had not a suffici ml opportunitj 

to n ith i 
a manner as tol 

■ 
taining delightful b1 arith 

n^at habitati 

a most singular and romantic app The 

internal compi ular mountaii 

primitive Omni 

1 about their 1 <, . - 

appearance, — with Burner* impure 

us FVirftpor. It i> r markable, thai man; 
e elevated maa 
table mould, — or any thing thai are should den 

so il^ — and yet are richly adorned arith plants t<> their 

very summits. In some places a partial, and in otb< 
total, decomposition of the rook has taken pla Ford- 

ing sufficient nourishment for a luxuriant vegetation. 
The "Sugar lomf" a conical mountain of 900 feet in 

height, and almost perpendicular, stands on tfa 



259 

side of the mouth of the harbor of Rio. Its summit 
is clothed with evergreen frutescent plants. — and even 
its steep, inaccessible sides, are ornamented with a spe- 
cies of Bromelia, and other plants. Similarly situated 
on the soil-Jess rock, near the base of another mountain, 
up which I scrambled at the risk of breaking by neck, I 
found a beautiful species of frutescent Cleome, along 
with several splendid shrubby species of Melastoma. 
But, the most extensive and interesting excursion I had, 
was hinted at in my last letter. 

This was to the mountain said to be upwards of 2000 
feet high, and about three miles to the southward and 
eastward of the city. It is called, from the peculiar 
form of its summit, as presented to mariners on ap- 
proaching the coast, the "Parrot's Head.'" We (Messrs. 
Brackenridge and Read in company,) ascended this 
mountain by a narrow circuitous path, until we had 
reached, as we supposed, a height of 700 feet, — from 
whence a road has been cut round to its southern side ; 
between which and another mountain— or rather a deep 
excavation in the same mountain, — rushes down, in a 
natural channel of Granite, the stream of pure and ex- 
cellent water which supplies the capital. Here the 
aqueduct commences, which we were three hours in 
steadily tracing, through all its windings, until it led us 
into the city. This aqueduct was completed in the year 
171-, as we learnt by an inscription on a pillar of Gra- 
nite at its source. The aqueduct is built with stone ; is 
about 5 feet square, arched over, — and would contain a 
column of water of one foot square, or more. Con- 
veyed along the sides of the rocky mountains, which in 
some places are perpendicular, it is altogether a stu- 
pendous work ; but fails, at last, to answer completely 
the great object tor which it was constructed. The wa- 
tei is bo partially distributed through the city, that it is 
even purchased by those who live remote from the 



260 

fountains: and in this trade of water-selling, some of 
the poor are said to obtain a livelihood. In the c« 
of this excursion, I picked up many plants that I 
new to mc. We readied Che city in the evening 
and faint with beat, and with hanger. It happened to 
he on one of the throughout 0m 

Port ugues e dominions in this country — in winch* 
hotly is privileged to do mtschi 
The ladies of the better sort pr 

amply witli WMX halls, about the ! 1, which 

filled wiiii ted water. 1 thrown 

liberally from die I windows on paa- 

aud many a tpTUC€ beau, this d i his 

raffles w« ll drenched The km 

nice. The] ich other * ttb aln kind 

Of tilth. It all rule for any 

offence, — si n< btained. All mm 

itlj ; unless j prepared to retaliate 

in the I i bman, a b1 

id and fumed, —but U 

all iu rain. The louder he ban led, t 1 
pelted, and drenched, — until he 
safety. We did not entirely escape participating in the 
universal fan. This wonderful m 
tinue* three days. Whether the Portuguese have the 
honor of inventing it, or derive it from tl. I 
know not: but 1 cannot learn that it d in the 

old world. 

Hut it is time to bid sdien to the siL, and 

to the mountains thai surround it. 1 have obtained no 
political information worth communicating; not I 

n much to attach me to the climate, the 
nsent, or the people, of this extraordinary country. — 
The event ol proclaiming s King — the first who 
ever proclaimed on the American shores — I mei 
in my last letter. The sight of his M i rfy, thus 



261 

— with the royal family all glittering in gold, and spark- 
ling with diamonds — while it excited the reverence of 
the gaping multitude, had a very different eflect upon 
me. Although a kingly state of things has again been 
cobbled up, throughout Europe, and a Petticoat -inakcr 
been placed on the throne of Spain, — a judge of fat 
capons, protected by British bayonets, on the throne of 
France — and a good-natured sort of a simple unfeeling 
character perched upon a throne, in the Brazils, — they 
all stand upon a baseless tottering foundation ; and are 
hugely at a loss how to devise Holy alliancz schemes to 
prop themselves up, — and to regain, if possible, the 
power and influence which the revolutions of the last 
40 years have wrested from them. The King of Brazil 
is the first,— and very probably the last, — that will wear 
the title, on this side of the water. The influence of 
example from the neighboring Spanish territories, — 
should the people, as I trust they will, ultimately, 
establish their independence, — must extend to the Bra- 
zils. Already has there been an insurrection in Per- 
nambuco. * * * * * * 

We sailed from Rio de Janeiro on the 9th, in com- 
pany with his Britannic Majesty's sloop of War, Blos- 
som, Captain Hickey,— bound also to the Rio de La 
Plata; who very politely offered to bear us company. 
The invitation was accepted ; (although we sail about 
two knots an hour faster,) on account of the intricacy 
of the navigation in that great river, — with which he 
is acquair ted. We have recently taught surly John 
Bull to be as polite as a Frenchman. Wherever we 
have fallen in with him, he has seemed to value and 
court our friendship. We have delightful weather, and 
are almost constantly exchanging civilities with the 
Blossom. Captain H. appears to be as intelligent as he 
is polite, and has seen much of the world. He was a 
midshipman on board the Lion, during the famous em- 



262 

y of Lord M.u artnky to China, — and a Lieutenant 
with Nelson, at the battle ofi Trafalgar. Wc com 
together on the events of the late war, with perfect good 
humor. ik I rogn I the war," apt. II. 

pou, and sunk n> in proportion :" — an ol 
ration ol mi well as liberality. The British 

officei lljr, expre 

Dish [ndependence. Th< ir to 

wish for the emancipation of the Colonies,— an 
that we mightaid the Patriots in thepn that 

gn ,,t event : — tht W hands being tied by the stipulations 
of tl, I [ow much sincerity there may be 

in all tin-, I knom not I give it as talk. 

We bai g d< clined touching at 
i 

[ will write again, and ei >-, — should 

we have th< fortune t 

the present, w 

P. B. M 1818. Wo aneln 

off tins plai 

Rio de Janeiro, until we an« 
chored n Island ofX .1 the mouth of the Rio 

. on ill'' LOtfa Instant In sscending i 
I had an opportunity of exploring die little Isle of 
/ , ; — while the Commissioners, and ih rs of 

Ives in murdi ring s 
who are the only inhabitants found here. W 

which 1 have t'nis day \ isit I < rv p] 

ted, on an elevated Peninsula formed by two bays, on 
the north Bide of the river. 1 have taken but boil 

botanical excursion, — in which most of the plai 

found arc new to me. The politic all, mis, 

hero, renders it dangerous to travel in the country. — 

But, as I am preparing to go to B. Ayres, I will d 
all further accounts oi this place until my return; ami 
carry this letter with me ; in hopes of finding an oppor- 
tunity to forward it. 



263 

Buenos Ayrcs, March 3, 1818. At length wc have 
reached the most distant part of our destination. I left 
the Congress — in company with Capt. Sinclair, and the 
Commissioners, — in a small Patriot Hermaphrodite 
Brig, on the evening of the 26th, and landed in this 
great city on the morning of the 28th, having had a 
pleasant passage. It was concluded unsafe to take the 
Congress up, on account of the difficulty of the navi- 
gation : and now, I have a vast deal to say, but cannot 
say it in this letter, — nor have I leisure to write another, 
before the vessel will sail, which is to convey our let- 
ters to Baltimore. I will say, that already I feel myself 
more at home, than I did at Rio de Janeiro : and Mr. 
Brackenridge, who is writing along side of me, con- 
curs with me in opinion. We feel that wc arc among 
a people more like ourselves.* Different and strange 
as the people are, compared with our own country- 
men, — those of the above mentioned royal city are 
vastly more so. Something like the air of sacred free- 
dom is really to be felt, here. The sullen gloom of 
despotism has at least been banished from the counte- 
nances of these people ; and I do hope — and more 
firmly believe than I ever did — that they will succeed in 
establishing their independence upon a republican 
basis. I think I can safely say, that there is as much 
difference between the political state of those born in 
this country, and in old Spain,— as there was between 

* While at Rio, I could feel no interest in any thing but plants, &c. 
Here. I have unavoidably caught the enthusiasm of a people strug- 
gling for their long lost rights; and am involuntarily compelled to 
feci a deep interest in it. There is, — as Mr. Biiackemhdke has 
just observed, — an union of sentiments, and interests, felt between 
the members of Republics, which the subjects of despotism never 
can feel, — even towards each other. By the bye — I will just quittly 
hint, that I think Mr. B. will be likely to do as much service, in this 
commission, as the commissioners themselves. 



the English and Amrlo-Amcricans, at the commence- 
ment of our revolution. 

They know more of us, and of our institutions, than 

I had in : : the] —and 

tally received as their brethren. But 

i much yet to l — iuch 

offer,— -fc the enjoyn that 

tranquility and - . ire 

i Thai they b ithin the 

I i 
the b that they will contint 

until they reach thai ran f politi 

i I cannot hut Batter n the 

American contii Lined to attain. Howd 

it, in ti, rid ! 

thai ill" inl i 

■ 
other The] upon diffi 

priii< and in which 

I oe of 

• 

up in Monl 
blocked by ■ detachment men, I - the 

arm] nmand 

I >i the unfortuni 

Tif kky: -and ti. 

men — I can J thing u lib l 

r\-( General, C • .Of 

this unfortunati ■ but little, — i \ 

that he baa politely I, en m t me 

into the country : t: an understandii 

him and Ai; Upon what principle he is sufE 

by the Portuguese to bai with their i 

mies, I know nut: but the Portuguese, 1 , are 

trembling for their and are ry particular. — 



265 

Although Carrera is friendly with Artegas, he says he 
is not a supporter of his cause ; and in this way recon- 
ciles the difficulty. 

I must now close my letter, and prepare to be intro- 
duced to Moris. Bonpland, the Botanist, (and compan- 
ion of Humboldt,) who has fixed his residence here. 
I remain ever yours. 



Buenos Ayres, March 11, 1818. 

My Dear Friend: I came to this country, prejudiced 
against the Spanish character. I took it for granted, 
that a Spaniard here was much like a Spaniard every 
where else. A people educated in the slavish principles 
of the Roman Catholic religion, of whatever nation, I 
thought must be poorly qualified for understanding 
what was meant by freedom ; and of course, would not 
be able very soon to establish any thing like a true 
representative, or democratic, form of government. — 
The results of the French and Spanish revolutions, 
were both fresh in my recollection. It is true, (having 
myself been educated a republican,) I did come here 
with a belief, that all men had equal rights; and even 
that, under the same circumstances, they were much 
the same kind of animals, — whether derived from 
Catholic, Jew, Gentile, or Mahomedan : but, judging 
from the events recorded in history, — and having ob- 
served that political and religious habits of thinking — 
like certain diseases of the body — become hereditary, 
and are cured with great difficulty, — I could hardly 
flatter myself that the people of this country were yet 
in a condition to be governed by any thing but a despot, 
in some shape or other;— although they had, from their 
own peculiar situation, and the situation of affairs in 
Europe, declared themselves independent. 

23 



266 

Since my arrival, I have been induced to change my 
opinion in favor of the people of this country, — for 
various reasons, which can be readily stated, and which 
(as they an* derived from plain and simple facts,) are 
easily comprehended. To state them as briefly as 
possible, is the object of this letter. 

There has never been any order of nobility perma- 
nently established here; Dor has the influence of die 
clergy obtained such an ascendancy as in the mother 
country. The difference, flu ople 

thus circumstanced, and those from whom they are dc- 

rived, must at once be obvious. But they hi nin 

a state of revolution I it years. What was their 

situation prior to this revolution) con with what it 

is now ! 

/>' the revolution, tic nnm-nt 1 m 

the hands of a Vice-roy, appointed by the Monarch of 
Spain, w h( >se po* en wei ' ' 

the domination of thl r the 

I in nor property individual wassecui 

This despotic or nenum rovi- 

sional constitution has been framed, which secun 
(he people the right of choosing, from ei 
d( legate to represent them In a general c s, or 

convention. This convention of del 

their own body, an e* r, under the tide of 

8uprems I)i —who remains in office during good 

behavior. Such is the advance al 
ganization of a &e< rnment Thecon| etas 

a check upon the ambition of the D *,— while the 

members are themselves influenced, in their political 
conduct, by the community at large. 

Before the revolution, there existed an inquisitorial 
power, by which many a hapless victim of clerical ven- 
geance was immured. From the arbitrary decisions of 
this Ecclesiastical Court, there was no appeal, either m 



267 

religious or political affairs. Since this important revolu- 
tion, the clergy from Old Spain have been removed — 
the authority of the Pope renounced — the inquisition 
abolished — and religion left to stand on its own founda- 
tion. All this has been gradually effected by the dawn- 
ings of religious and political light, — without that effu- 
sion of blood, which disgraced every revolutionary 
step, in France. 

Before the revolution, there were no schools, or semi- 
naries of learning of any kind, except such as promoted 
the slavish views of the Church, or the State with which 
it was connected. Now the case is quite altered. Public 
schools are instituted for the instruction of youth in 
general; in which are taught, beside the common rudi- 
ments of learning, the principles of free government, 
and the elements of military science. It is thus that 
the people are rapidly acquiring a correct knowledge of 
their inestimable rights, with the means of defending 
them, 

Before the revolution, the clergy possessed the power 
of suppressing education in general. They soughtfor, 
and seized all books which were judged inimical to their 
system of religion and politics, — and exacted penalties 
from those with whom such books were found. No 
individual, or family, was exempt from this odious 
examination ; and all publications having a tendency 
to enlighten the mind, or improve the understanding, 
were doomed to destruction. Now, literature in general 
is freely tolerated. Political writings are sought for and 
read with avidity. The constitution of the United 
States, along with the constitutions of the individual 
States, and the works of distinguished political essayists, 
are found in translation among them. The clergy 
themselves are rendered useful, in being placed at the 
head of literary institutions, where they promote the 
interests of the revolution by teaching the principles of 
free government, as well as the catechism. 



Before the revolution, Foreigners, calculated to pro- 
mote the best interests of society, were not all 
settle in the country. AW, merchants, mechanic-, and 
trade-men in p-neral, from almost all parts of the 
civilized world, may he seen in every street in Buenos 

Ayn-s. Bui few I d them 

the confines of the ca] ilthough every 

menf Lb given (hem lodo so. Land >hould be gra< 

byfl rnment to agriculturists; and much be 

would arise, do! only to the great cause of agricu 

hut to the general in1 , — by this most 

>nmuni: [ling 

themselves of be privileges held out to them. 

Such arc I I w I 1 the most in<; le and prOmi- 

Dent fhets, relative to the political situation part 

Of BOQth Amciica. It i- ihe only part I m a 

state of revolution, — and 
as Bis mosl important, it w \\\ ■ 
my observations apply only to thoi d the 

southern and \. In Rio de la Plat 

which at pn onstitute the Buenos Ayrcan gov 

ment. u is one of the mosfl popi and may be one 

of the most enlightened of nil tin- B. An min- 

ions,— either north or south of the Equator. It claims, 
at least, a superior rank and consequence, Groin iti 
ing first shaken off the Spanish yoke, and condu 
all its revolutionary measures in a spirit of moder.i 
which evinces a knowledge of rational liberty, ab- 
stracted from that licentiousness which Spread ruin and 

desolation, and finally terminated in despotism, in one 

of the Barest and most populous portions of the old 
world. Chile, Peru, fcc. are following the exampl 
Bonaria. They are all in a revolutionary state. ( 
was declared independent on the Kith Of Fehrn. 
The spontaneous effusion of joy which the ] I this 

great event produced in the DUCBOS AyreaDS, I have 
just witnessed. It was not the illumination of the capi- 



269 

tal with artificial light, that produced the best evidence 
of sincere rejoicing, on this occasion : A brighter and 
more interesting flame could be seen illuminating the 
countenances of its inhabitants, and thereby evincing 
that unfeigned regard which one portion of a great 
community may feel for another, struggling in the 
same righteous cause, and assuming the same indepen- 
dent attitude. But they have a government to estab- 
lish ; upon the principles of which their political happi- 
ness will depend. Already they are deliberating upon 
a constitution which is to be permanent. May wisdom 
guide their councils in this most important of all human 
concerns ! Their independence has been solemnly de- 
clared ; and they will undoubtedly be able to maintain 
it while they continue in a state of Union, — even with- 
out the addition of the provinces on the eastern and 
northern side of the great Rio de la Plata, which be- 
longed to the viceroyalty of Buenos Ayres, under the 
royal government. These provinces are the Banda 
Oriental, Entre Bios, and Paraguay. The two former 
are under the dominion of Artegas, a refractory chief, 
who refuses to send delegates to the general congress, 
and appears to aim at a separate government, — but pro- 
fesses to be a good republican. The latter is under the 
government of Dr. Gracia, who styles himself dictator. 
He, also, refuses to unite with the Buenos Ayreans; but 
is likewise opposed to the royal government. All the 
sea-ports in the dominions of Artegas, are either 
blockaded by, or in possession of, the Portuguese — with 
whom he is unable to contend. Hence the Buenos 
Ayreans sutler the encroachments of these foreigners — 
who have availed themselves of this unfortunate divi- 
sion of political interests ; which, it is to be hoped, will 
not last long. 

St. Salvador, May 30, 1618. 
The above rude sketch was hastily written before I 

23* 



270 

left B. Ayres. I then expected to have had an opportu- 
nity to transmit it soon, but was dj ior 
have I since had an opportunity to forward any h-tters 

to the United States. I transmit this, \>nh all 
imperfections, — although ire may ehance to reach 
the doited St early as soon. Much important 

information r og (he ins, and theif 

Did ; and I am liaj 

to state, that Mr. Bi men, from fa 

led| tii«' Spanish language, ia eminently qaali- 

Bed foi obtaining useful and correct ki .— 

and he has lost do time in attending to it. Be I 
unquestionably addc ily t" tin- importai 

mission ; and to him I am much iod< bl 
\ aiu.sid (acts, which I hi I non b tnmo* 

ite« 
An. v Leai tag ml my Una 

lv at Monfc I Maldona which 

plai up many n. u and lanta ; I 

• which i hars In ■ pretty #ood si 

ss, 
at Montevideo, the jattei end of April. Just I 
they i' it B. ' account arrii 

total d< anisb e Thia glori- 

ia event was achieved i m- 

manded the combine U- 

lums. Tin- will pro': llde to the <»v< rthi 

of Royal pow* r in I nt a Bnal 

end to the B i j al Goi ei nm< ot on the western 
the Cord ill 

We sailed from Maid the 4th, and have had 

a tedioua pai I M days,— having run abort 

wood, which waa difficult to obtain in the La Plat 
expect to sail in 3 or 4 days for Margarita,— and n 
touch at a few places on the Spanish main, before i 

Cb the United Stat 



271 

I think St. Salvador much more pleasant than Rio 
Janeiro. It is a well-built city, situated upon a hill, af- 
fording most delightful prospects. Yesterday was 
wholly spent in botanizing in its environs, — which 
afforded me a considerable addition to my herbarium. 
The temperature at this season is delightful ; and I am 
told that it is always cooler than at Rio Janeiro : 75 
degrees of Fahrenheit has been the usual height of the 
mercury, since our arrival. 

My health is now good ; but I felt some slight returns 
of my old complaint, before we left Maldonado. The 
weather had become cool, with a humid atmosphere, 
and frequent heavy gales of wind (Pamperos J from the 
S. West. My last letter was dated at B. Ay res, on the 
2d of March, and transmitted via Baltimore in the Brig 
Plattsburgh. I had not then seen M. Bonpland, the 
French Botanist, who travelled with, and published his 
botanical works in conjunction with, the Baron Hum- 
boldt. I believe I mentioned his having located himself 
in the vicinity of Buenos Ayres, in my last leiter. He 
will form a valuable addition to my correspondents; 
and will be very happy to exchange South for North 
American plants ; and has already furnished me with 
some specimens. It was cause of some exultation to 
me, to find that the plants in the vicinity of Buenos 
Ayres were very little better known to him, than they 
were to me : but his authority served to confirm the 
new genera and species, which I picked up when 
there. 
Some time ago, I began to amuse myself by copying off 
for you a catalogue of the plants which I found on the 
small Island of Flores; but other duties, accompanied 
with a small share of laziness, prevented me from 
getting through it,— and it would not have been of much 
importance. 

To conclude, — although I have no reason to com- 



272 

plain, — I am weary of being a member of Congress; 
and anticipate most anxiously the period when I shall 
return again to private id the men! of 

domestic happiness. 

I am, my dear friend, most affectionately yours. 



17. S. Ship Congress, at SM — 

>ncuhcrc within 100 mi. i H 

J , 7. L818, 

Ml Dear Sir: At length we approach OUT native 

shore, — baying just made the land ithwardof 
Cap< I 
so IdOg an My last letter I 

front) St r h of May, — c mg 

son South imeri 

which 

hi "" d Wll run fj I port. 

iled on I d arrived at th< 

of M "ii the 28 l, thai ning a 

<KK) mil l but t* 

this Inf Ulanc!,— which * 

n the necessary ini 
relative to th< ; Litical rta! of this department But, 
the informati ible to 

cause i i Vi nezu< l an Ii nj 

on the main wai dwindling away, while tl. its 

were gaini ogth. In i light near 

Calaboso, the roj al ral 

Mo] aid to be d uslj r . An unoffi- 

cial report was in circulation that he had actually 
Of his wounds. 

The m«>re I sec of the South Amcr the men 

am surprised that we should ha nil in 

the dark respecting their real character. By most of 
our countrymen, who have been among them, tie 



273 

have been confounded with the people from whom they 
are derived; but from whom, I am confident, they differ 
even more than we do from the English. I have called 
the island of Margarita interesting : it is so in many 
points of view. By nature it is almost impregnable; 
and may be termed the Key to Venezuela. Here, less 
than twelve months ago, feats of valor were performed 
by its patriotic inhabitants which would do honor to any 
people. Hence, there is no dissension in politics. Ev- 
ery man — and every woman — is a soldier and a patriot. 
All things are in common among them ; and all their 
views are directed to the grand object of maintaining 
their independence. But, we have politicians among 
us who object to the color of their skins! that they are 
nothing but a parcel of wild Indians, or negroes ! This 
constitutes their superior excellence. The Indian blood, 
particularly, which flows in the veins of the Venezue- 
lans, is what has improved their character, — and ren- 
dered them vastly superior, both in their corporeal and 
mental powers, to the poor degenerate King-ridden and 
Priest-ridden Spaniards. But more of all this, when I 
shall have the pleasure of seeing you. I cannot, how- 
ever, but add, that this mission to South America will 
derive a great deal of its importance from the talents, 
acquirements, and indefatigable exertions of Mr. Brack- 
enridge, — of whom I have spoken in my former letters. 
He has taken up the cause of the South Americans with 
a zeal which does equal honor to his head and his heart. 

I do not recollect that I informed you, in any of my 
preceding letters, of my finding the Solanum tuberosum 
indigenous about Montevideo and Maldonado. This is 
the fact, — although it is unknown to the inhabitants; 
who inform you that they cannot cultivate this noble 
plant ! 

Lastly, I have to inform you, that my health has been 
declining since we left Margarita ; but I hope has not de- 



274 

dined beyond the bounds of recovery, when I can have 
the pleasure of exercising on shore. I have been 
(much against my inclination) obliged to abstain from 
all study, the most part of th- Latterly, 1 have 

not even attended upon the nek, — accept to consult in 

a few instances. 

Ml We are slowly beating up from LynharenBay 
(where we anchored last night] towards Hampton 
Roads, l have ah applied 

on the ground of indi in, — an< 

re the Ship for Wilmington; where I shall 
expect to b m you nun 

1 am m 



WUmi July 17, 1818. 

deab Dakun rived I 

and . od m\ 

Kamptofl Road I now 

qum\ and must take I tion ; 

hut should be glad t n, mi- bear i; n, as 

earlj l write Ibis in great bs 

office, — and remain j • c. 

r. s. i long t<< bear the I 

of our country, — and particui ur West 

( Flora, 



Wilmington, July 23, 1818. 

Ml DBAS Fiiir.ND : I havo thj ours 

of the 19th, ami am so pleased to lnar from you once 
more, that I cannot attend to any thing until I return 
you an answer. 

Accept my thanks for the Botanical now s you have de- 
tailed ; — although you have hcen anticipated by our 



275 

friend Collins, in every thing, except your own dis- 
coveries, in a letter I received from him two days ago. 
From Mr. Elliott, I received a letter this morning, — 
in which he informs me that his health, also, has been 
impaired so much as to disqualify him from prosecuting 
his studies, — and even to endanger his life. He has 
now pretty well recovered ; but has not yet published 
the 6th number of his Sketch, — and intimates a wish to 
hear whether I have any plants to insert, before he 
sends it to the press. 

Although I have Florida Letters, and a vast deal to 
attend to, — I will leave all, to put in practice at least a 
part of your kind scheme.* My situation in regard to 
health requires it; and I can go to no place with more 
pleasure, than to West Chester. Those Florida Letters, 
in which you take so deep an interest, have remained, 
like your Flora, for many months in statu quo. On the 
passage out from Norfolk to Rio Janeiro, I did progress 
with them a little, — after which, as may be readily sup- 
posed, other objects seized my attention. 

In the homeward passage they were not attended to ; 
and the state of my health, for a considerable part of 
that time, prevented me from attending much to any 
thing. I hope when you come down with your gig, you 
will allow yourself leisure to look over my collection 
of South American specimens. I will boast that some 
of them are in as fine a state of preservation, as any 
specimens in the world ever were. In consequence of 
the succulency of tropical plants particularly, I was 
obliged, in order to preserve them from speedy destruc- 
tion, to set my invention to work. I hit upon a plan 
which has succeeded admirably. 

[*This was an invitation to spend a few weeks with me, and amuse 
himself with Botanical excursions in Chester county, for the benefit 
of his health. He accordingly came, and staid some days with me 
in West Chester.] 



276 

The eagerness of the public to obtain political ft 
from S. Aui'Ti I induced me to furnish the Dela- 

ware Watchman with the substance of my I 
— which was finished at St. Salvador on the 29th of 
May- It was principally written .it r 
and contains ■ littl fully i the peo- 

ple of tii.it country, than any of my other letters. The 
\ ' . , vrellai 

mention, is entirely unknown to me. I artah 1 had 
been n Ufa you, in your lal l.' 

I am ?ery deficient in Pennsylvania pi 
Dr. M - would bare en herbarium 

with many of them ; but I waited I 

-wlic: . ' he a .t- do more. v. 

nam y ml. 



Wilmingti .!>■■■-. A 1-18. 

took a kin h have 

away home on 
,"—l i Inform you 

h"\\ Dg, ami tun my thanks lor yOUT 

attent 

/ | — and such like medicinal i . — that I 

\ : to i trip. I bad Khan raeeutlj made, along the Susque- 

10 nN> t. .»:nl across Pokono mount 

[| While staying pritl «y t<> m\ 

case, to help himsalf to a do*e i t Bark,— 

and lOOk, UJ mistake. : f ;m OUU Isindanum. 

Both hs tod niv bmilj mm nra tod on making th< 

ootsry ; but he im oul on » long b rsion, 

with I I thfl e fleet of the medicine. 

tauiil\ d him. at a respectful h the result. — 

He returned, however, id ■ km hours w;" perisneaaf any 

nnnlrassnl efiecte, — and oven thought In- was benefitted l>\ 
dose. It H to this to 100 M BM letter.] 



277 

ascribe such an improvement of my health as enabled 
me to reach home yesterday, (after botanizing all 
along,) at half past one, P. M. I wish you would 
attend to a water plant, which covers a small pond on 
the left hand side of the road, as you travel this way, 
but a short distance north of Dilworthstown. Being 
heated by walking, I did not think it prudent to wet 
myself by going after it. A little further on, I met 
with Sida spinosa, by the road side. About a mile on 
this side of the half-way house tavern, I found abundance 
of the Anagallis arvensis. You may recollect pointing 
out to me a Pota?nogeton, at a bridge near this place, on 
our way to West Chester. It is the same (P. lucens,J 
as that found at the forks of Brandywine, without fruc- 
tification. Here it was in full bloom, — and the leaves 
under water precisely like our Brandywine plant. * * 
I must now write to Elliott — and bid you farewell. 
Yours. 



Philadelphia, August 14, 1818. 
My Dear Sir: I came here yesterday, and am pretty 
well. Mr. Collins is not at home, and will be absent 
for two weeks. Mr. Nuttall is in Germantown, and I 
shall not see him. It was my intention to have been in 
West Chester to-morrow; but have declined it, and 
shall return home. I spent several hours yesterday 
with our worthy old friend Bartram ; and have made 
an arrangement with Col. Robert Carr, who has the 
maragemcnt of the garden, to cultivate my S. Ameri- 
can plants. He has now the Lantana Bratramii (for 
the first time) in flower in his garden. How would it 
answer to have an engraving of this elegant plant, as a 
frontispiece to my work 1 Mrs. Carr (daughter of the 

24 



278 

late John Bartram,) draws elegantly,— and has en- 
gaged to execute as many drawings for me as I want. 

In a letter which I received from Mr. Collins, a 
days ago, he informed me (without previous solicita- 
tion,) that he would have my intended publication an- 
nounced. This annui, may, perhaps, stimulate 
me to more industry in preparing it; and I have not 
fore forbidden it. Among (he iir>t plants which 
I shall notice, will be Veronica hederifolia, — which I 
perceive has only been noticed in Muhlenberg's Cata- 

It wis sent to him by me, in 1811. I found] 
terday, on Shellpot, DCai Wilmington, a ccies of 

Prunella, — certainly, I would say, too distinct for a 
mere variety. It was 1^ lligh, much br. 

brmnc rly tu ice the length oi 

y v?, and with large flowers of the 

clearest white : th plant. On showing a speci- 

men of it to Mr. Harts ugiu be had seen I 

and COO h tnr it, 

and let me know. A I I had an ml 

visit from John Ji I am pretty I he has, 

in hiscollec w plans. 1 will propose a 

scheme. Inform me, by Letter, when in span 

time, and J will (in my turn,) take you in - (for 

I have both horse and gig,) to see this worthy old l 

Of Nature. Do strain a point, and 1 ;o soon,- 

iks of one line plant which will Boon be out of 
Bower. On the 1 11 upon Dr. Baily, and 

insist upon his obtaining for us some memorial of the 
late Hukfhst Marshall. I am d to notice 

him in my work, — and would wish 
Tt is late at night; I am sleepy and extremely weary 

from my ride yesterday on horseback. This is my ex- 
cose for incoherence. Should I think of any thing 
in the morning, I will add it. I am ft 
P. S. I forgot to inform you that Mr. Brackenridgk 



279 

is in Wilmington,— and will remain there until he pre« 
pares for publication. 



Wilmington, Del. August 16, 1818. 

My Dear Sir: Meeting with a private opportunity, I 
embrace it to reply to yours of the 13th, which I receiv- 
ed last evening, on my return from Philadelphia. It 
would have been entirely superfluous for you to have 
directed me to your father's to breakfast, on my return 
home from West Chester. Had not my anxiety to re- 
turn in haste prevented, I should have called at your 
father's without any direction ; — as I should there, also, 
have felt myself perfectly at home. 

The Anagallis arvensis is still flowering (as well as 
seeding,) — and if I do not greatly mistake, will continue 

to flower until frost. 

******* 

But the great object of my letter is to inquire of you, 
when you will be ready to go with me to visit John 
Jackson. I wrote to you from Philadelphia upon this 
subject, — informing you that the old gentleman had 
been to see me, and that I thought he had, in his collec- 
tion, some new native plants that would soon be out of 
season. I informed you that I would call on you, and 
we would go together in a gig, — taking Dr. Baily's in 
our way, where we would endeavor to obtain some ac- 
count of H. Marshall. I hope your practice will not 
prevent such an excursion soon. Do give me, if possi- 
ble, an answer by the bearer, — who will be returning 
soon. Although I am now anxious to devote every 
moment to making preparation for my work, — my 
health requires that I should mix exercise with study; 
and your company, on such a journey, would be one 
half the battle. This letter has been scrawled in great 
haste, — and I shall not look over it to correct blunders ; 
but remain yours. 



280 

Wilmington, DeL tkptem b irtt 1818. 
Ill dear Frif.nd: Health about the same: Hare DOt 
been id)*-: Have added toDiandria Monogj 
linear ijoi ia t — which had been overlooked; and ii 

sosta diffuMOffrom E. Florida, — aothithertoko 
to be indigenous. The N from Cum- 

berland bland. JM « t with 
letter from J. I. irhich i I an imi 

answer, and v;<i\<' i pportunity of proj 

to him. He la full of publishing agreal n 
• •••••• 

I am packing minerals an 

order to the city to-m < >n my return 

100 or 500 \ ,n.is north of the 
road I 

111 i in; lib /' p 

much smaller and than tin- common 

orrj i did not attend I u trill find 

nd examine it. I shall return from tj In two 

or thi irhen it would 

,— could you i 
is important to me. Withbi 

i instances, — but it i^ hardly worth whU 
borrow them. a matt uty, sh< 

think of it, yon may bring I 
\ "D might as well gn \ 

19th cL i--.— aa I shall ; 

it, — ;it least one. I hi in die (S drpm 

tenui i \n«'11 as I 

arium. mistak 

[• FWlfli Ludtvi lana.] 

[-(•Containing a m D to cli.i Lin- 

noaw cla>s to Cafyrntidria. This change, I afterwards learnt, had 
actually bsSD made fltftfl years prior to the date of this Utter. l>_v 
M. Kuuvun. See I'Lra Ctstnca, p. 4 283.] 



281 

took for castaneus. You have specimens of the latter. 
In haste, 
P. S. This has been written since I shut up shop to go 
to bed : and therefore no time has been lost. 



Wilmi?igton, Del September 17, 1818. 
My dear Sir: As you did not get your Report last 
week, I must be remiss no longer. Being in the city, 
closely engaged with Collins, kc. prevented me from 
writing. I have therefore to inform you that I go on 
slowly,— and I hope the more surely. It will not do to 
hurry : There has been too much hurrying, among our 
Botanists. But you may rely upon it, that nothing but 
death or disease will prevent me from going on steadily. 
Both interest and knowledge increase, as I get along. 
My interview with Collins was as interesting as it was 
pleasing. * * * On presenting for his ex- 
amination our JacJcsonia, he had no hesitation in consid- 
ering it a new genus— if an American plant: but, in his 
usual cautious manner, recommended omitting the pub- 
lication of it until the ripe seed-vessel could be obtained; 
lest, possibly, it might be something exotic* 

Of the Darlingtonia,] of which I gave him specimens 
[*The traditional history of this plant was, that it had been ob- 
tained, by the late Hi-.mphret Marshall., from the mountains of 
Tennessee ; and. supposing it to be a new genus, Dr. B. and myself 
had proposed to dedicate it to our estimable friend, John Jackson. 
But the characteristic caution of our friend Collins saved us from 
making a great blunder : for, on examining the plant in a more per- 
fect slate, I ascertained it to be the Saxifraga crassifolia, L. Of 
course, there must have been some mistake in the history of its de- 
rivation ; — as it is only known as a Siberian plant.] 

[jThe plant here alluded to — which Dr. B. at one time talked of 
naming thus — is the "Saturrja ? rigida, Bartr." in Brniii'i 
noble work on the Labiutae, p. 354.] 

24* 



and seeds, last year, he knows nothing; but will aid mr» 
in the investigation of it. BABTEAll says he recollects 
it, in his travels in Florida — and thinks he r I it to 

Stocky $ % or Satun-jn. Stackys it cannot be. I will 
compare it with Batureja % and all other gem long- 

ing to that order. 

I am now «!» , < > ]> in the X ,— having added t<> 

juncm and jlmbriata, another :ataj. The 

X. Indie b and Nci fall, I am ii 

is nothing hut tin: varyin < 'iniana—OT 
IMuhl. The name of BftuHLSifBEB 
by all Am' While Euro] 

from one another, without L r i\ ing definit 

-lit unifi irmly I authority. 

nt me R / / "a). 

| t tO C II ho has 

placed I f the b< 

in our c . — and who finds fault wit 

all hi 

l was 111 t. . It' 

yOu cann< ii r from j . It 

is my intention, the ensuing week, \o arrange in b 

order m] 

to enable dm pilarly and My with my 

rk. • • • ,,,, Jn , y, — and 

it is tini 



Wilmi . D S M, L8U 

."\h Dbab Fbibni the I7tb, was dulj 

ceived ; and mine of tl date has in all probability 

ceived byyou. I continue to progress slowly, 
with tolerable health, — and certainly d waul in« 

dustry, so much as capacity, to gel on moi dily. 

I have; this week, also, been subjected to una- 

voidable interruptions. 



283 

For some time past, I had been looking for a letter 
from John Le Conte, big with botanical information, 
which I had earnestly solicited, — in relation to some 
plants in his former vicinity; when lo ! after his for- 
getting whether he had answered my letter, or not— he 
comes out as follows: 

"An expedition to explore the western waters that 
run into the Missouri, and probably those also that fall 
into the Columbia, is now in a state of preparation. I 
am anxious that you should accompany it. I may 
probably be one of the officers attached to it. We shall 
travel with a sufficient company to make observations 
of every kind that may be necessary, and to secure 
from any danger; and the fatigue and hardships that 
have heretofore rendered journies of this nature disa- 
greeable, will be entirely avoided. I wish you imme- 
diately to answer me on this head, — directing your 
letter to the care of Mr. Charles Perry, No. 69, North 
Water street, Philadelphia, where I myself will be 
next week. Cannot you contrive to meet me there 1 — 
Excuse the shortness of this letter. My time is so 
much occupied, that I can devote but little of it to my 
friends." Signed, John Le Conte — who, by the bye, 
is now a captain in the U. States Engineer Corps. 
Thus have I given you the whole — verbatim et literatim 
et punctuatim : and really feel anxious to understand a 
little more about so great an expedition, — w T hich, if 
already prepared for an immediate start, would ill com- 
port with my situation, plans and arrangements, to 
accompany; but which, should it not set out until 
spring, and I could arrange with the government, would 
exactly suit me in every point of view. I have not 
yet answered the Captain, — and am hesitating whether 
to write, or go up the ensuing week and have an inter- 
view. I wish you would upon this, as upon all other 
great occasions, give me your advice and opinions freely. 



2S4 

In an excursion, B few days ago, south of Christiana, 
to look for a Xyris, I found a Paniann, which I think is 
very unequivocally new— and possessing characters 
which will render it easy to describe. How much I 
to be done near home ! In th n I f<»und, also, 

the Sc.irpus intermedin*, of MubL But ought such a 
specific nai land .' I an glad U con- 

tinually ir Flora. It will be much more 

rich in plants than Bl I Wish lO adopt J 

H < th/randria"— US it is correct and appro] 

lending to simplify rather than confuse ; wl anot 

many modern innoTations. I shall, 

example my protest against the cutting up of the 

plants so naturally allied, i: •■--••ntial cl 

< a ry to constitute iG ledge is di<- 

played I them. The cl i inch 

a- Genera are found . r ht to - 

8 t or Dm . i i -which a 

simplify, I burtheningthe science with names, 

Th« i i but what l in 

B my would at one- call \ than 

ad<»pt such an [nnoTation, I would add to J 
the ( tyn*nchnm$, In >n, — It i- l 

11, P.M. 



Wihningii . D I October I, 1818. 
Hi dbai Sot: I have just recollected that anol 
H is due. It will be ■ short one. Yours of the 
Htfa ult. was recoi\ \ c many more 

Medleys, of Botany, and good wishes — and fvn scandal 

and all — when so appropriately applied! 1 am not yet 
through the Rhyneko§mwm t — as I have many new spe- 
cies. You will observe, thci that I adopt Rhyn- 



285 

chospora. In it I make two divisions, viz : Spicis uni- 
fioris— and Spicis multijloris. You may observe that 
Mr. Elliott has a Scirpus sclweiioides, described from a 
specimen sent by me. Of this he says that "the struc- 
ture of the flower is strictly that of a Scirpus." I say 
it is not so: but I cannot now stop to explain. There 
are many of the same character : Even the Schoenus 
rarijlorus, of Michaux, has spikes three-flowered. The 
whole genus requires revolutionizing. In Scii-pus, I 
make such divisions as will include Dichromena, and 
Fimbristylisy kc. I shall probably hear again from Le 
Conte, to-morrow. Several short interruptions, since 
last report. I have been occasionally dragged into con- 
sultations, &c. much to my annoyance. I am now en- 
gaged in writing to, and putting up a packet for, M. 
Bonpland,— to forward by Com. Taylor, — who is now 
here, and about to return to Buenos Ayres, 



Wilmington, Del October 9, 1818. 

My Dear Friend: I continue progressing slowly. 
Your letter of the 1st contains exactly the advice, cau- 
tion, and counsel which I anticipated, — and which I en- 
tirely approve, and thank you for. 

A second letter from Le Conte, was received at the 
same time ; — stating, that "the expedition fitting out by 
government will leave Pittsburg, in the ensuing March, 
in a steamboat building there for the purpose, &c. &c." 
It appears that this expedition will be a very extensive 
one; and will explore our south western territory, along 
the Mexican border, &c. Le Conte concludes thus — "I 
am now going to Washington, and shall endeavor to 
settle the plan of proceeding — which is not yet per- 
fectly matured — so that the whole business shall be 
worthy of our Government, You will of course (if 



286 

agreeable) be attached to the expedition, as Surgeon ; 
and have the direction of a part of the scientific persons 
who will accompany it." Thus, you . our 

friend calculates upon cutting a figure in tins expedil 
It appears, by the papers, that Major Long will com- 
mand. With this gentleman I am acquai and a 
better could not perhaps I ited. 1 suppose I shall 
not see you until after the election. I do nno 
hope jrou may be again elected; and thank yon for 
your kind intention to promote my intei 

Ify health continues much the same ; but I foe] that 
rather m would be adi isable, than I 

taken lately. Should you call on me d< 
then again, probably, I -who 

I..: d to WJ 

i*. B. i bai put up for Bom i 136 . and 

requested in return su< I think a ill 

to me. Among th y sent | fi 

jluvial, t i\ Ol A G • • by which I find our 

which it has b 



w . D . B, 1818. 

Mi Di : fours of tasl n eeh s L I 

omitted vrriting, fir iu. — 

Accept my sin< 

the next Congress. I u cannot take your 

s»at imn t South 

America:, 1 ml. •prudence. Will not J \AC # 

be on that side of the question! Mr. Bk 
Leaves us, in s few day-. I Itimore. He wish. 

see you, and have some conversation on S. American 

Tolii. 

[*'I"li»* ! i D ASH—TOW, — then a Representative in I 

greas, from Chester county. Peons.] 



287 

I go on as usual with my work: more speedily 
would be desirable, but impracticable. My health is 
rather improving, if any thing, — with the exception of 
occasional head-ache and pain in my eyes — I believe 
from long and close attention to the seeds of Gramin- 
eous plants. I am happy to say, that I feel myself 
pretty well satisfied with the progress! make, —slow as 
it is: but I shall solicit your criticisms, and those of 
Collins. 

I have heard nothing further respecting the grand ex- 
pedition. In a letter received from Mr. Collins, a few 
days ago, he queries thus: "How would it do for you to 
accompany Major Long, in the steam-boat Expedition? 
You might go, I presume, if you pleased, in your offi- 
cial capacity, and reap much new matter. Would not 
the trip give great force to your work 1 Mr. Thomas Say, 
our Entomologist, is going, — and you would be pleased 
with him." Thus you see how doctors disagree. In 
my reply, I informed him that I wished to publish pre- 
vious to travelling again. When I get fairly through 
the Grasses, I shall, I hope, progress a little more 
rapidly. With esteem and respect, &c. 



Wilmington, Del. November 19, 1818. 
My dear Friend : I continue progressing slowly.— 
Since I had the pleasure of seeing you, I have described 
above one dozen plants, — and am nearly clear of all 
the Cyperaceae. For two or three days past, I have been 
much interrupted by various little unavoidable matters 
requiring exercise, by whrch I have been benefitted.— 
and which I do not therefore regret. My final arrange- 
ment of Rhynchospora, Dichrome?ia, Scirpus, Fimbris- 
tylis, and Trichophorum, is, — that I have added Dichro- 
mena to Rhynchospora, — and Fimbristylis and Tricho- 



288 

phorum to Scirpus. Some of our Botanists * ill of roursc 
be surprised at the union of Dickromtnn with Rhyjichos- 
porOi instead of Seirpui — in consequence of the want 
of bristles in the Die u I have been induced 

to make this uiai 

found (since I ' 

i I\ y rcrcd, and i 

other re • l: og die bris- 

tles! This, then, constituted an Spikes 

t brittle* wanting. I then found v to 
surprise and pleasure, th pil — as w< n as the 

form of the seed, and the t — I the f>irhmmenas 9 

correspond tly withth R ichos- 

porai : and I ad of 

ant- 
I iinitin / I 

h ho a ill he 
at the p. tins ■ tine the pla nti\ i ly. In i 

the fioisl i v I wish t num 

II probably repi 

phia in the COt r that pur- 

poses ; — am B COpj 

as i knon you ought to have yoiu 
which l received from ( Jo ad- 

dition to my Herbarium, — the S 
Muhl. This Lsi i - tebothoi tuber* 

cle and bristles: and yet, in halm, it comes exl 

R . 
satisfactorily distinction 

j>us Wun ind atrovirenSi of Mi . — which 

•Or rather miming them, — sepa- 

rated from Scirpus* Thfl Dichiomer.a Uucocrjthala was also the 
Schotnus stcllalus. of S* iboQl which IVitsii has 

another miatato 

[j-Scr, h(H\t \( r. Dr. ToBBIt'i Monograph of the North 
can Cvpcraceac] 



269 

have been confounded by Pursh & Nuttall. Although 
Pursh gives the synonym, brunneus, to his exaltatus, 
upon the authority of Muhlenberg himself, he is most 
unequivocally mistaken. The exaltalus of Pursh, is 
the atrovirens of Muhl. or merely a variety of it. The 
name of Muhlenberg ought to be adopted. The plant is 
well described by him, and very distinct from brunneus. 
What a shame it is, that Mr. Elliott should adopt all 
the innovations and errors of this book-making Botanist! 

Neither the old Abbe [Correa], nor Mr, Le Conte, 
has given me any further account of the grand expedi- 
tion. All I know further, is derived from Mr. Rodney, 
this evening. He says that the President (in his 
presence) ordered the Secretary of War to note my 
name, and place of residence, &c. The appropria- 
tions for this expedition are yet to be made. I should 
join it with great reluctance before I had something 
prepared for publication, — although I should be sorry 
to miss it; — as it would lead me into a kind of life 
which I have always found congenial to my health. * * 

Do give me your opinion about the propriety of 
separating the Gentiana crinita from its congeners. It 
differs much more widely than many plants that have, 
in modern days, been separated. I shall ask the 
opinion of Collins, the first opportunity. I have not 
yet collected any seed of the real Gentians. The genus 
Exacum must come near the G. crinita: but I have 
never seen that genus. It would give me great pleasure 
to dedicate such a plant to you; and I am much in- 
clined to think that its separation will admit of an ample 
defence. Yours. 



Wilmington, December 7, 1818. 
My Dear Friend: Yours of the 2nd, has been re- 
ceived. It was my intention to have written to vou bv 

25 



290 

the last mail; but I accidentally let the period , 
over. I have not niuHi I .it last; but I continue 

jogging on slowly, ami endeavoring to do well as I go. 
Since I wrote Last, 1 found several more new sp 
Cyperusth&n 1 wa- aware of;— and have been obli 

to halt, and P'-'watmn mis called \l 

whk?h I can find d< -and scarcely habit todis- 

tinguisfa it from < Comp M 

with Cyf . — (I mean * tri gosui of H 

the ttrigo$u$ of Linn, and MukL is a rery different 
plant, — although both l'i'i;>ii and Elliott, in their n«'- 
of the fon [incorrectly I i the latter—] 

ami they will he found to agree in 
cept that in the one the Bpikeleta are collected in 
i m, com w Hat us f s 

, .Muhl.) with an] of the compress 
spiked Cyp$ri % — and I mot be distinguished, 

(••■pi, as in the form* r instance, by the spikelets i 
collected jut i a hi ad. B M 

—which ia most unlike in — la, I will venture to a»- 
sert, t it, as far i arnedL — 

In slmrt, these plants requir gh rc-in 

tion. As for PtnaEi one Options will apply 

to half a dozen; and we shall never know anything 
about our Botany if we rely upon such woi 
of examining the planl 

1 have not yei been in the city,— but must L r «> shortly. 
[f, after conferring with our excellent friend Col 
on the subject of Gentian* orinitm, 1 should conclud 
sepatateit from Qtntimna,] would gladly avail mj 

*I have eonteqtientj/j changed the n this stn 

subulatus.^ Bee Ptasooir, who baabodi under the aaas 

Vol /. y>. 63 — 61. Ons of ths BOmC name is sumYiuit in a family, 
I should lUppO 

["HSes CjgpfflfS Miihaviianus, Torr. Monogr. N. Am. 

peraceaa*] 



291 

of the Generic character of it, which you have made out 
so correctly. I received a letter from Mr. Elliott, a 
few days ago. He informs me that he has just returned 
from his trip to the Alatamaha ; but without finding 
much that was new, or interesting, in Botany. He says 
it is his intention to get rid of his public employments, 
— both for the benefit of his health, and to enable him to 

devote more time to Botanv. 

******* 

Sincerely yours. 



Wilmington^ December 25, 1818. 
My Dear Friend : Although I have not been idle 
since I wrote last, I fear you will think my progress has 
been too slow, when I inform you that I am not even yet 
clear of the Cype?~aaae. I have added 15 species of 
Cyperus, — and have yet a few Kyllingias to add, to 
clear me fairly of Triandria monogynia. Perhaps you 
will be less severe upon me when I state, that I shall 
have little short of 70 plants inserted, when I enter 
upon Digynia. I believe I informed you in my last 
letter, that I had rejected the genus Mariscus,— and 
perhaps added, pre??*aturely, that the plants included 
under that head would all arrange with the Cyperi. — 
This turns out not to be exactly correct: so necessary 
h is— as Dr. Muhlenberg once told me— to "look again 
and again,* 1 before you decide. One half of them are, 
indeed, unequivocally Cyperus; and the other comes 
so much nearer to Kyllingia, than to Mariscus, that I 
do not know where else to dispose of them. The Ma- 
riscus echinatus, ( Scirpus echinatus. L. Kyllingia ovu- 
. Mx.) when its spikelets are single-flowered 
(which is frequently the case), is Kyllingia exactly, 
according to the characters given to the genus; — 
whereas, not one of our established Kyllingias corres- 



ponds with those characters. I stated all these difficul- 
ties, a few days ago, to Counts; but have not 
ceived an answer, — and I ther is so abominably 

cold that I am afraid to go to the city. Cou 
me, lately, ular little plant, 

the Srirpus $ub$qumm IfuhL supposing it to be 

the Kylling i I MTichaux. It is not onlj 

K. macuLUa — but nol b a at all, — as nil the 

are tin t, in habit it 

is KyUU ictly. The A'. salyi 

Uvalved, with a 3-valved ( ' i lie. Can it be the Oy- 
peruM minimus,* said I »und 

[y by Dr. I 'u i ra i aid you mens 

from Dr. I 'u 
I have at I id, through J. 

men of the s 'irum ()jj\cinarum % 

This will enable me to d< teimine n fa E 

ought t«» be united to thai genus, — acc< rding 

El, Ace. I h 
Uon, lofindth -.--hut . //goes, 

it would unite them. 

The ooM weather pinchei n* ly; but I< 

tinue as health] tad, — a I rail ma] 

Unless pinched to death, l don 9 t think another* 
will find me in this bleak, 
clime. Since the m\ l 1810—11, I have gad 

Bowers in every month of t ; . and i o the 

sunshine of milder regions* 

Wishing you a ■ w r y Ckristmmsj—] n 
oerely yours. 

[*It was, ilouhtloss, thr plant now ! j is tubsqtiarrosa. 

See Tor he i 'a Monogr. N. Am C< pnaceae.] 



293 

'Wilmington, January 7, 1819. 
My Dear Friend : I write to inform you that I do, at 
last, see the end of Triandria monogynia : and to thank 
you for the interest you have taken in my being attached 
to the western expedition — as expressed in your letter of 
the 30th ult.* 

[*This refers to a letter, in which I had informed Dr. B. that I 
had written to the Secretary of War, in behalf of his appointment 
as Botanist, in the proposed expedition. The following is a copy 
of the letter to the Secretary ; — to which is subjoined his reply. 

TO THE HON. JOHN C. CALHOUN, SECRETARY OF WAR. 

W st Chester, Penn. December 23, 1818. 
Deai Sir : As this is not, strictly speaking, a Utter of business, 
— if you should happen to be engaged in the duties of your oiriceat 
the time you receive it, I will thank you to put it in your pocket, 
and favor it with a perusal at your leisure, by your own fireside. — 
The acquaintance which I had the honor to make with you, during 

rttings of the 14th Congress, encourages me to address you on 
the present occasion, — and to hope that the procedure will not be 
deemed impertinent, or improper. I have heaid, with much pleasure, 
that it is in contemplation to send a party of scientific gentlemen to 
explore the country, and its productions, to the westward of the 
Mississippi; — and the great interest which I feel in the successful 
accomplishment of the object, induces me to obtrude myself for a 

o Mneutsupoo your notice. Xo one, I am satisfied, can appre- 
ciate more justly than yourself, the lustre which a government de- 
rives from the successful and liberal promotion of Natural Science : 
and I am convinced that you will be gratified with so fair an oppor- 
tunity of enhancing our reputation, in that respect, among the 
learned of the old world. It will also be a source of laudable pride 
to the citizens of this repubbc, to see their government as eminent 
for the promotion of useful science, as it is for the protection of civil 
. I have no doubt but every care will be taken, to select gen. 
tlemcn for the proposed expedition, who excel in their respective 
departments of natural knowledge ; and I trust a rich reward awaits 

25* 



291 

I have not had a syllable from Washington, upon thr» 
subject; — although Mr. R , and others (voluntarily) 

tied my claims to Mr. Calho 
sklent Bat, I irould i >m a letter I received a 

empowered to make ael i in hi^ tcientty . — 

or, that th rnment mmunicated t<> him I 

nai thofl I 1 1 y him. I 

* rites thus : lf Thc Botanic chair * ill !><• filled by your- 
self; I 

Datum, 

■ 

will be a 

Am the leaat 

in all par' 

H 
m is (in case the appotntnv 

of tl I made* pre an 

! 

Wi una i ; it, of the U. 8. fl l 

. gentleman i 
daily, in tiroation i I 

u i I 

) in] \ht ;ate 

4r m; and I h»\. t but t! I ussioncrs will da 

fully testify | >.). I have 

understood, indeed, thai ! ho$ been dm 

dent, aa a an \\ bat I could ao( my 

testimony in his behalf, — both because I a:n desirous that accom- 
plished Naturalists should bt selected for tin* expedition, and be- 
cause I am aatiafiad, from a long and intimate acquaintance with 
Dr. BaLDWIV, that he i> peculiarly fitted to d<> justice to the Dotani- 



295 

Geologic, by Dr. John Tokrey of New York." He 
adds further : "It gave me the highest pleasure to learn 
from our friend, that you had consented to be one of the 
exploring party ;— a decision on which I rely with the 
fullest confidence, in every point of view." Am I to 
consider this as absolutely official, — and sufficient with- 
out orders from Philadelphia ! 

The Major calculates upon leaving Pittsburg the 1st 
01 March, — or as soon as the ice breaks up : but says, 
t; I shall probably be at Wilmington before that time, 

cal department. To settle any doubts which may possibly exist on 
this head. (i. e. his Jitness), it will only be necessary to refer to 
Zaccueus Collins, Esq. of Philadelphia, Stephen Elliott, Esq. 
of South Carolina,, and Mr. Correa, the Portuguese Minister; — 
who are unquestionably among the best judges of Botanical merit, 
in the United States. 

It may perhaps be proper for me to observe, that my troubling 
you with this communication is exclusively an act of my own. So 
far from being solicited by Dr. B. to interfere in his behalf, I assure 
you. that gentleman does not even know that I have such a thing in 
contemplation. It is a free-will offering on my part, for the reasons 
above stated. 

Should it, therefore, be compatible with the views of the adminis- 
tration to give him the appointment, and to render it eligible for a 
man situated as the Doctor is — with a young and growing family — 
it will be a source of great gratification to me: inasmuch as I am 
convinced, that if he should be favored with life and health, the 
highest expectations from that branch of the expedition will be 
amply fulfilled. Trusting that you will excuse this well-meant 
ofTiciousness, I beg leave to subscribe myself, with great respect, 
vour friend and obedient servant, 

WM. DARLINGTON. 

P. S. Although it may be altogether superfluous, yet if I might 
be permitted, I would respectfully suggest, that there should accom- 
pany the expedition, among others, a scientific Geologist — Surveyor 
and Draughtsman — Astronomer — Zoologist — Botanist — Mineralo- 



296 

and will do myself the pleasure to call on you. In the 
mean time, please to communica' sub- 

ject connected with the objects we have in vii As 

I have no doubl Mr. Secretary Calhouu will am 
your letter, I shall defer replying to Maj « until I 

hear from you. 

The 1 led m . and 1 cannot 

hut congratulate myself on getting c .—al- 

though i do n myself of tarrying too long 

L r i-t — and i pen in q 

la as might i L W it 1 

if — faniiihied With die Her» \ss ir\ apparatus an- 

— me might ronii 

. which v 

the inten it 

I - J 

with tl Polity, and tin 

\\ . IX 

War D J ► 18 

I I \k Bl it : I h | 

rclati »n to thi )» baa been \ under 

Maj >i Lone. Dr. IIui.win iril] ' the party ; tod 

happ) to have yow mj *«th« i 

The " 

ogimphy of «uir country ; bot it ha* 1 

Jnakr it .i- • , th«» 

expedition will be i i»t in t 

branchei <>t" knowledge, which yon have ena 

In earring '»ur country, it will afford me pteaaora to con- 

tribute to the advancement of ecience. 

Accept o\ n nee Of HTj U iped and esteem. 

J. C. CALHOl V 

Hon. Wl in \>i D LBL1 m. i 
West Cheater, Penne, 

l 



297 

among them. I now know more— or fancy I know 
more — about them, from one month's application of 
this kind, than I should have known in 7 years, as a 
mere amateur: So necessary it is to be always prepar- 
ing for publication. 

Including the Marisci — which I have added to Cy- 
perus, — and some other plants imperfectly known— with 
some from South America (which I have added for the 
sake of illustration, or for other reasons), — I have up- 
wards of 70 plants described. 

My health is not to be complained of, — notwithstand- 
ing the inclemency of the weather: Indeed it appears 
to improve. Were it not for the difficulty of removing 
goods and chattels, I believe I would send my family to 
West Chester, during my absence (should I go), — in 
case a suitable house should offer for their accommo- 
dation. I am 6cc. 

P. S. We expect Joseph Lancaster will give us a 
lecture on education to-morrow. I have more to say, 
but must defer it for another opportunity. 



Wilmington, Del. January 21, 1819. 

My Dear Friend: I cannot avoid paying early atten- 
tion to your friendly and interesting letter of the 13th. 
Although I fear you over-rate my talents and acquire- 
ments, I do hope that the zeal and friendship which you 
have so often manifested in my behalf, will have the 
effect of stimulating me to greater exertions, in the 
wide botanical field which now opens before me. — 
Since I wrote last, I have received another letter from 
Major Long, headed "Circular," — in which he informs 
his scientific corps cf the weight of baggage, &c. which 
will be allowed them ; with hints to be prepared in time 
for the expedition. He manifested the greatest zeal in 



an 

our behalf; and I cannot but Batter myself that, 01 
hie command, every possible facility will be afforded. 
I have answered Iheee communications; and shall re- 
pair to the city, in a i i, to confer with Mr. 
en matt-:]- relating t<. the expedition. 

With r to Ibe publication of the bota 

ter which I have already prepar > pre] 

befon letting out for the w< \—\ hardly know ho* 

rmed me, that it< publication 

n announced in tin- l'"--t Folio; but in what 

manner I kno* i/"t. As he offered it, 1 

did n<<t ltivi- him an ific instruct 

something of this Kind ha- been long expected fi 
me, — and a i U ■.. irnish tin- • \ id< l am 

ible of performing, — I has : the 

plan ublish in th- I 

1 itural 6 ula- 

delphia. 1 should tin . in my proliminarj 

>ns, mj lopting such a plan: and tin; 

lical public \\ i uld be prepared toju 
stent ao what I might i pub- 

lish, — if favored with health and I 

I ferny ought 
t<. publish .i numb* r oi 

i (1 tu m ' ribution - my fj 

My health contint I am now among the 

. -of which I have i 
and several from South aid boj 

clear the Rant was, before 1 hi. Mj 

ss has tnd< od I — much than l had 

anticipated, — but it has i d too alow, 

sufficiently acquainted with le individual in a 

large family i t plant-. 
well, it Lb n quainted with the charac- 

of all, or many in thai family ; — and in ace I have 
examined, re-examined, and examiou in, — and 

think I ha \ d repaid for my truuld 



299 

I shall be truly glad to see you before I go. There 
can hardly be a doubt on the subject of my finding the 
Darlingtonia * It is a plant that T have been seeking 
for; and I shall cherish it as the choicest of my discove- 
ries. I remain truly yours. 



Wilmington, February 4, 1819. 
My de.ar Friend : I returned last evening from Phila- 
delphia, — where I spent several days in examining the 
Herbarium of Dr. ^Muhlenberg, fcc. I took with me, 
for the inspection of our mutual friend, Mr. Collins, 
the 4th and last number of my work, — embracing a part 
of the genus Cyperus, Kyllingia, Lcersia, and the begin- 
ning of Paspalum. With his critical observations I am 
well satisfied. They were, I think, judicious, — and 
rather complimentary than severe. As I expected, 
some few inaccuracies in my Latin, j were pointed out; 
and some of the descriptions were considered rather 
long. With respect to publication, he advised me to 
defer it, for the following reasons: 1st It was already 
too bulky for a periodical work. 2nd. I should thereby 

[*I had jocosely suggested to Dr. B. that he might, perhaps, find 
the Dail'mgtonia ignota, somewhere along the margin of the Mis- 
souri: and it so happened, that his successor in the expedition, Dr. 
E. P. James, did find a species of the genus, afterwards named 
Darlingtonia, by Prof. De Candolle. See Annals of Ntw York 
Lyceum, Vol. 2, p. 101.] 

[jDr. B. had received no other education, than such as the com- 
mon English schools in Chester county afforded, and his knowledge 
of Latin was merely what he had acquired by his researches in Bo- 
tanical works. He derived considerable assistance, however, in the 
study of that language, after his marriage, from Mrs. Baldwin, — 
who had received a classical education, rather unusual for American 
female* of that day.] 



300 

1 portion of the profit which MCk a work, published 
independently, ought to pi fed. fin ilisappn 

of my having blended the s,,uth with Xorth Ai. 

plants. 4th. Ti announced in an 

independent form. I>nt I jstly requested 

\1 ::. - t m length, 

ublication in the ] u of the Mil 

pub- 

lisfa ; ihe BUl it. an BCCOUnf 

plant or plants, I may think pro] - t. ,: This, I think, I 

Can I thOUi mUCfa . and I have almost 

v mind I ct the g< qu R 

* 
With tfa H I rable Mni. 

luable ts I * ill remain to 

!,<•,— ] h . Died (Jnfortunal r my 

purposes, b 

• m the ■ the 

plan' and, 

I 
much 
to find, that the d by m 

fully in At th( 

. • 
i (l along in 1 bad onl; 

look 
[hi 

munications, i n N 

of B . • leanu 

d examined by a com . — ami rejected, 

as unworthy of publication ! 

J am trnl \ to find, that "my new and appr 

'And aho to pTUCDt feO \\x Society. :is of all 

Rtajncliusporae. 



301 

method" does not indiscriminately go down, with the 
members of the Academy ; and that they have sufficient 
independence to reject tiro wild effusions of a literary 
madman. He is now in the city, but as he is huffed at 
the Academy, I had not the honor of seeing him there, 
and did not think it worth while to seek after him. But 
I was delighted with a truly scientific production from 
Mr. Say, on several crustaccous animals, found in his 
late excursion in Georgia and Florida. There can be 
no doubt but this gentleman will do honor to his depart- 
ment, in our projected excursion to the West. * * * 
Another good thing has happened to me. I have fallen 
heir to the copy of Michaux's Flora, which belonged to 
my departed friend, Dr. Muhlenberg, — with his mar- 
ginal notes. It had fallen gratuitously into the hands of 
Collins; and he, hearing me speak of wanting a copy, 
immediately presented the above, — assuring me, in his 
sententious way, that I did him a favor by accepting it ; 
as I was most intitled to it. The very first thing I at- 
tended to, in conjunction with Collins, on my arrival 
in the city, was the plant I had originally designed for 
Darlingtonia.* I had never relinquished the idea of its 
being a new genus; but the observations of Bartr am, 
-and Collins, induced me to pause. Collins had pre- 
viously — and we now together — examined, and com- 
pared it with elegant figures of all the genera belong- 
ing to its order, — in which they are all dissected, and 
explained, in a late French work. The result is, a new 
genus, — whether Darlingtonia, or no. I made no men- 
tion of Darlingtonia to Collins; but was highly grati- 
fied (at the winding up of the business,) with his propo- 
sal to drink your health in a glass of good old (7 years) 
Madeira. Thinks I to myself, there may be something 
ominous in this: but I only observed, that he could not 
have proposed a toast more pleasing to me. 

[*Sa(urrja ? rigida, Bartr. in Brvtham, ubi supra.] 

26 



302 

The many other things I have to say, must Km 
red until I see you, — which I hope will be shortly. The 
near approach of a period in which I must long 

separated from my family and I . — and in u 

my reputation — my every thing — ap] i be in some 

measure involved, — mato 'tul, it' i 

tittle melancholy. Can yon not contrive to spend a day 

or two, or three, with :, ncnt ol my 

Herbarium — and other matt*'! 'ion! 

In the meantime accept my beat n isb 
r. s. I rode to Philadelphia on the 20th nit. and 
1 much with I I ; but am gla<: iiat I 

continu lal health, 

I }. iaon to calculate up 

ived, Kb 
ill con. A 

young Mr. i 

Blatant : and Dr. Si Lea upon be- 

fighting 

character. tf I ar- 

t, — M I am ii" it. It g 

iid thai ka in 

l human* l\ , in n Lation to be 
Indian-, l hope it u ill lead I human aids 

the. i). W the guilt 

and his adjunct, I will ventun nldhave 

been no n minole war, had I 
fairly dealt with. 



Wilmington, D . /' ruary 2Ti, 1819. 
Mv Uttl fkiknd: Yours of the 16th I re- 

ceived. I have not yet learned tl t set- 

ting out for the West; hut, a> I momentarily expect to 

live that intelligence! I will begin my . and 



303 

leave it open until I hear further. Le Conte informs 
me, in a letter I received from him yesterday, that 
Major Long left Washington for Philadelphia, on the 
21st. As he promised to call on me, he can hardly fail 
to do so, — and ought to be here to-morrow. 

Mr. Le Conte does not accompany the Expedition; 
but how it happens that he does not, he has not informed 
me. lie has reverted back to his Sy?iopsis, — in relation 
to which he has written me two letters in quick succes- 
sion. From Mr. Elliott, and his book, I hear nothing. 
I do not see the danger of losing my Southern Collec- 
tions, altogether ; — unless death should prevent the com- 
pletion of my account of them. They are as interest- 
ing to me, (as far as they go,) as any other collections 
can be. But it is true that delays are always danger- 
ous: and I have now to regret that I did not, several 
years ago, prepare for publication. You will please to 
recollect, that it is not long since I have made Botany a 
business: But since that time, I have labored hard, — and 
should it ever eventuate in honor, or profit, I shall owe 
you much, for stimulating me to pursue it. 

My stock of flannel, kc. is in readiness. I shall take 
care to inform you of our route, the moment I am ap- 
prised of it myself. I might have known more of it by 
this time, — but have deferred inquiring until I see Major 
Long. ****** 

26th. Another ( stormy ) day has past over, — and I 
hear nothing from the Major. 

March 1. I have this moment received a letter from 
Major Long, dated in Philadelphia the 26th, (he having 
gone another route) requesting an interview, for the 
purpose of making arrangements, &c. I shall there- 
fore go up to the city to-morrow ; and probably return 
the last of the week. Should I remain longer, I will 
write you from thence, — as I am anxious to see you. 

In haste, yours. 



m 

PhihKhlphia ( M . U ft, Ifi 

My Dk.au Fkikhd: I return home this day, with only 
rii d On ti) r: , I return! 

nt imn, 

irly the i i 
pleasure. I am, much | with n 

panions in science, and antic | 
rion,— should ! only d with health. But I 

'•.mi. .} \s ith • 

mc. A i upon i . 

how I shall iu< . the 

pul. i 

Mnrh " 

P. E this morni 

portrait.* 



P . ftf l i. U 

penniasi return to Wilmington, 

until . .shall then go to Pit! Batti- 

luch tl. 
in coi 

cal instruments fn m Men JT< rfc . n 
i the baj bould I 

ince, id Pitts! lajor Long thinks, 

a ith roe, thi main where 

illy employed, until Ifa • last I am not 
whether any of the gentlem* d \n ill a 

[•This portrait, til 
l'htladtlplna M nstitution. — It i.--;i 

ct likeness; and from it, thr lii mh] to this 

volume has been taken. The iignature, ! it.is a/*c $,m /<• 

the last le.'ttr I >r. B.] 



305 

I can now inform you, authentically, that you were 
proposed by Collins and Say, on the 23rd December, 
1818, and elected a corresponding member of the 
Academy. The reason why you have not received 
your certificate, is, that they are waiting for a seal, &c. 
so as to give it to you in style. 

Last night we all met to drink tea, at Dr. Patter- 
son's, — where I had an opportunity of being intro- 
duced to a number of Savans, members of the Philo- 
sophical Society, &c. and among others, I was happy 
to meet my friend Brackenridge. To-morrow even- 
ing, we assemble at Mr. Secretary Vaughan's. The 
Philosophical Society have given me their thanks for 
my donation of Rhynchosporae. Collins appears 
pleased with my communication, to them, on Cyperus 
and Kyllingia; and Mr. Vaughan told me, last even- 
ing, it should be published in a half volume which they 
are preparing for the press. I expect to return to Wil- 
mington the day after to-morrow, — where I shall have 
a chance of hearing from you, if I should not see you 
again. Yesterday I called upon S. W. Conrad, — prin- 
cipally to urge his publishing Muhlenberg's Flora. — 
He says he will issue proposals immediately, for pub- 
lishing by subscription, — and place my name at the 
head of the list. But I have (and Collins the same,) 
agreed to take one dozen copies. I must request you 
to relieve me a little in this business, by persuading 
some of our friends to take copies: such as John Jack- 
son, Drs. Seal, Hayes, &c. The letter of Mr. Elliott 
has not been found. The singular manner in which 
this letter disappeared, has almost renewed my belief 
in witch-craft. I shall look upon all the cats, hence- 
forth, with a suspicious eye. I am busy, even on this 
day of rest, io packing up, &c. In haste, yours, &c. 

26* 



306 

WUmingUm, h I Mm fl, Ml 
My DEAl Fmr.M): Ynnrs of the 27fh, has b- 
:: but til- "Tillage nen 
bare accompanied it, has not come to hand. It is tal 
in this pli r it 

for Baltimore, I shall attcn.I : 

ing in r /' . 

thai j ind «<ur friends, wbo maj uld 

lak< r which I bai 

same tim r than • hould - 

i th»' publi< ild risk 

wb< 

■ 
—as I t of 12 

.n [ Ch i 

■ 
. (on ti.i 
• 

all 

in a p •• ill 

obtain admit! 

s, w nh the es 
|y Anishe 1 when I lefl thi 

Major's, I think. 

mplain 
1 •. and the laal Ui 

p (in C 
position). Tl i- manifest in tin- pictui 

• • • it gh ea me t«» inform you, that 

the views o! oorfri od coincide remarkably 

with our own, in relation to t ; \\ 

in our Country, fn conversing 
our views on tbe Bubjectof forming an I I 

and Sjm Ptonlomm, b lly 



307 

in favor of restoring the Bartonia, of Muhl. and reject- 
ing, of course, the one about which Pursh and Nuttall 
have been contending. I was introduced to a German 
gentleman, in the city, of considerable botanical know- 
ledge, who has been some time in our country, and has 
made a large collection of specimens to carry home 
with him. In looking over part of this collection, I 
found a specimen of the Balduina unijtora, given him 
by Nuttall. He reprobated, and had changed the or- 
thography to Baldwinia. I was glad of this opportu- 
nity to inform him that the name would not be adopted 
in this country ; and that it would shortly appear, named 
and described, from another quarter.* 

I shall probably write you many a line ; and another 
letter from you might reach me in Pittsburg, — where I 
expect to hear from Collins. I have this day put up 
for him, and for the Philosophical society, a considera- 
ble number of specimens, — and among others, my best 
specimens of Solanu-m tuberosum [from S. America, no 
doubt. One of these is now in the Herbarium of the 
Chester county Cabinet]. On my return from the city, 
I found letters from both the Secretary of Navy, and 
Army; and have therefore, at last, the satisfaction to 
know how I stand, in the projected expedition. 

March 22ncL The village newspaper has come to hand 

[*This has reference to a promise, by Mr. Elliott, (who had 
long known the plant.) to publish an account of it, by ancther name; 
as Dr. B. was not pleased with the genus, — and was particularly 
sfied with the orthography of Balduina, The genus, however, 
seems now to be definitively established; though the oithograpny 
iniy be ultimately changed to Baldwin 'a: and such, I understand, 
is the intention of Drs. Torre y & Gray. 

^ince the foregoing was written, Part 2, of the second volume of 
the Flora of North America has been published ; in which the 
name, Balduinio, is correctly written, and the genus restricted to a 
single species, viz: B. uniftora, Nutt. Torr. & Gray, 2. p. 389.] 



via Philadelphia. The plant you have inquired about 
[noticed in a Virginian news] I have no doubt is 

the Ijamium amplfj ■ I it i^ the only spcci 

a OUt of tb M. It flowers throughout the 

winter, in G tnt 

\ nowtalu 
One word more. [ wish ] I 

your tiiii<-. — and 

th'' ensuing 

end pert <• lis riy to thi lion of G i« I do 

now l rd a itfa Borne kind i I i the 

•d, — u bich I hope La i v-w hei 

union of la] I < < ■ and 

P I I 

liato ly and i 
in the constructs >d < f a bich, I 

ite. Th • v. ; TALL i 

ithoul its merits : But it i 

will \< ntur. \ in nu- 

— and ti 1, the 

better. The Dumber of W ' ' 

be abridge d. He I 
, in the J 

lUed, W ill iiH\ itahly ( n<\ in rW 

strikes at tfa 

ample, the dogs oi . w ith a 

a arm mantle « f ftir, i 

rind genus from (hoc -.— s 

naked. STou 



Piffsfa . \ ;,. 1819, 
Ifi dsas Prixbs : I am here along with my com] 

ions in snug quarters, — while winter is raging without 



309 

in violent squalls of snow. I left Baltimore at 2, A. Hi 
on the 27th ult. and reached this smoky city between 2 
and 3 P. M; on the 1st inst. after the severest jolting I 
ever experienced ; but, under the operation of which, — 
beside being obliged, from bad roads and a crowded 
stage, to walk a good deal through rain and snow, — I 
enjoyed comfortable health. It was not until I had re- 
mained here near two d ivs, that I felt something of the 
effect of such a journey, in a slight catarrh, with a de- 
termination principally to my head,— but without losing 
strength, or appetite. My headache has now left me ; 
and I feel but little uneasiness in my breast. All this 
would probably have been avoided, had the stage kept 
on with me at the same rate. 

We are all here : but unfortunately, with every possi- 
ble expedition, our Steam Boat will not be in readiness 
under a week or ten days to come. But we are not 
idle. Our Geologist, in particular, finds something to 
interest him. among the rocks, and coal formations, on 
the high hills in this vicinity: and I have found, beside 
tse* and Lichens, the following Phanerogamia in 
flower— notwithstanding the inclemency of the eeason : 
— Houstonia cacrutea, Saxifraga Yirginiensis, xinemone 
hepaticciy Devtaria laciniata, Draba—l am not certain 
whether vcma y or not, as I cannot yet refer to any book : 
along with two species of something like Arabis. I 
should be glad to know when corresponding plants 
flowered on the Brandywinc r — where most of them, I 
believe, are found. I ought to have added Poa annuity 
and La miu m ample x icaule ; the last, it would appear, is 
not afraid of a little snow. I have visited the GfJo**,and 
other manufactories, which do credit to Pittsburg. 

I received a copy of my orders, yesterday. These 
rs are issued through Major Long, from the Secre- 
tary of War; and each man receives a copy of the 
whole. It is rather long to transcribe; but mine runs 



310 

thus: "Dr. Baldwin will act M Botanist for the < 

turn. A descri] 'ion, 

ncr common, oi peculiar to the countries he may 

. will be r< him. Also the diseases 

the inha \ or 

.1 their | . — w ill : 

for hi 

in Oil m. Dr. 

BaLDWOI w ill l :ul BUTf 

tor the 

it foil 2 . the 

an assistai all. M 

I of I'i i! • 1 1 .•:. 1 his sci 

Journalist He is insl >1 t<» ioi with the 

• Natui i the 

plop ! 

the i 

Mr. i. has . 

but 1 I i I of 
r. Oi 

will! 

little or do Bl »p A 

tion to the I >bio until ire return in autumn. \\ 
letter fr 

if w ritt I this, l 11 ; hut it 

ild be bighlj le. I tl 

in my tamiU - Colli I Mr. 

ftoDif] I -nil he would m 

It is becomin 
and having nothing farthi mmuni sent, 

I remain most sinccivly and 



511 

V. S\ Steam Boat, Western Engineer, 

Pittsburg, May 1, 1819. 

My dear Friend : I wrote to you on the 5th ultimo. 
It was my intention not to have written again to any one 
(except my wife) from this place ; but, as we have been 
unexpectedly detained, and various incorrect reports 
having been set afloat in the newspapers respecting us, 
— I consider it a sort of duty I owe to you, particularly, 
to report the causes of our detention, and our pros- 
pects, &c. 

During the absence of Major Long, in Philadelphia, 
in February and March, the building of our boat did not 
progress so rapidly as had been expected, — for want of 
his own personal attention to the workmen, who were 
employed by the day. On the 23rd ult. every thing ap- 
peared complete ; and with high and anxious expecta- 
tion of success, we attempted to stem the rapid current 
of the Alleghany river — and failed. It was found, that 
in consequence of the weight of baggage, stores, &:c. 
sinking the boat much deeper than was expected, our 
wheel — which is situated ait — was also too deep. Beside 
this, and the stiffness with which all new machinery 
must necessarily operate at first, — our fuel was of so 
bad a quality, that the necessary quantity of steam 
could not be kept up. It is but fair to mention, that un- 
der the above disadvantages, with a power of 70 lbs. to 
the square inch, we stemmed the current until it sud- 
denly sunk to 30. On the 29th we were ready to give her 
another trial ; which was done accordingly, by ascend- 
ing the river about a mile, — in which we succeeded be- 
yond our expectations. We now calculated to bid 
adieu to Pittsburg on the following day (yesterday); and 
accordingly, with flattering anticipations of the event, 
we got under way, — but were again disappointed. We 
had the misfortune, in the first place, to ground on a 
bar, near the middle of the river, on which a current 



312 

i little less !han h miles an hour. In our e\ 

and in i the cylinders — 

and a leak diSC i ra OfM of the I 
Ully pt 

\\ hi<h i. • fnrtun . — thu is Che \\ 

not o 1 1 1 \ it. but ;- 

edy I i wi'h facility. I. when \s<- take 

int.* c 'ii the c >raptii of a si 

1 ihai every thing mutt ■ its 

;i, — I do ii • that any thing 

u hich nnL r hi ip ' sen ex] 

that we have no |o success. 

Th.- OS all ; 

ami t<» DO 00 Riled 

up tins intei 

the 
I ' . - • 

. basju I, that 

will • I 

h there ; and ! 
• 

un to tl 

Y iimaj i:. and rid 

. ult. 
which i f our 

young officers, It seems thatsomi 

id of i y * ill publish 

at hast, that a 

ranking I <\ er hat c \n 

the i , published ia th< 

which is now going the rounds. On the 23rd, 

tir Rrst this plsu 

well written puff appeared in the Pittsburg 



313 

stating that we had gone several days before,* I have 
not found any new plants here ; but several which I had 
not seen before: and among them, the Delphinium tri- 
corne, Dentaria diphylla, Vicia Cracca, Uvularia grandi- 
flora. Purs h. &:e. The Veronica peregrina, and officinalis, 
which Mr. Xuttall has imported from Europe, are 
found here in the wildest situations. The latter is not 
yet in flower. The "former is abundantly diffused 
throughout the Creek territory, — at least between the 
Ockmulgee and Chatahooche rivers; and I have no 
doubt of finding it up the Missouri. The Turrit is lae- 
vigata is very common on the east side of the Alle- 
ghany river, fwo or three miles north of Pittsburg. I 
found it in one spot on Brandywine, near Wilmington, 
in 1811, Nuttall has certainly never seen it. See his 
book. Whether it be an European genus, or not, — or 
something distinct from Turritis, — it can never be 
blended with Arabis.i * * * * 

Mr. Say has been very successful in finding new fishes, 
lizards, kc. Jessup has collected many stones ; Air. 
Seymour sketched a number of romantic views, — and 
Mr. Peale has painted most of Say's fishes and 
amphibia. 

But I must not conceal from you, that I have again 
had a touch of my old complaint : not indeed more 
alarming than at many former times, — but never with 
more regret. A pain in my leftside, with cough, and a 
distressing head-ache, came on about a week ago. I 
lost no time in resorting to remedies which I had found 

*We mutually pledged ourselves, before leaving Philadelphia, to 
caution our correspondents against publishing extracts from our 
letters. A request has just been made, by a Pittsburg editor, for a 
list of the names, rank, destination, &c. but refused. 

[fYet De Caxdolle, Torret <Sc Gray, and others, have since 
referred it to that genus.] 

27 



314 

most successful; and my cough, and pain in the side, 
have left me. I have not yet ventured to stimulate,— 

pt with opium, Tart. Emetic and Calomel. I shall 
hold out as lon^ as I can. Whether my remain 
deposited on the banks of the Missouri, or among my 
kindred at borne, I i matter of little conseque 

For the sak<- erf my family, and the pursuits I am 

<l hi, I shi iiM irish t" lire .rs long- 

Although I have considerable materials I >g some- 

thing, I would almost as soon have the whole of my 
collections <m<i notes , as published after my 

decease :— SO li d in a manner 

would he intelligible to any on«- beside myself.— 
Bui in case of tin . I would trust t<> non 

C0LLIK8 and y< r a paper, or a men. 

I u ill keep tin- <-{m ; ^t until we mak<' an« I 

attempt in 1 will again n ; state of 

jm\ health. 

U , 8, P. M. At 10 this mon nr moor- 

ings in the Alleghany rhrer, Dear the ( miles 

above Pittsburg, and continued to ply up and down the 
river all the forenoon. Finding 
we ran down opposite the town, where we have 
arrived,— and must of course g<> down the Ohio to- 
morrow. My health aboutth In haste, youis. 



17. 5. Steam II it, H . /: 

Shawancetoun , H , 27, 1819. 
Ml : Vou no doubt think I n 

i>ut I ha I excusea to offer, — the principal of 

which, unfortunately, continues to be nely 

,,i body. I am merely able to crawl on 

shore, wherever WC Stop to take m PTOOd, ^^ 

ally biding some interesting plants, it takes up much 

tune to examine and arrange them ;— and I am obliged 



315 

to be careful not to confine myself too long at this 
business. 

My last letter was dated at Pittsburg, May 1, & 3. It 
was not, at last, until the evening of the 5th, that we left 
Pittsburg; and reached Cincinnati on the evening of 
the 9th. Here, some repairs being required, we re- 
mained above a week ; and I took up my residence on 
shore, at the house of a respectable trader, or mer- 
chant (Hugh Glenn), — whose invitation was too press- 
ing and sincere to be resisted. I afterwards found sev- 
eral acquaintances; but to no one do I feel under 
greater obligations than to Dr. Drake, — whose attention 
was unremitting, — and with him I rode out daily, when 
the weather permitted. We met with many interesting 
plants (several new to me), — and among others, which 
I select from memory, the Collinsia, of Nuttall, Synan- 
dra grand {flora, Ditto, Stylophorum diphyllum, Ditto, 
Valeriana pauciflora, Hesperis pinnatijida, Pursh — very 
distinct from the southern plant, of Michattx. But I 
cannot now say any thing more about plants. I only 
meant to report myself, and to say that the field for 
botanizing is now becoming very rich ; but I want a lit- 
tle more strength to make the most of it. I have ne- 
glected Collins, and other valuable correspondents. 
We stopped a few days at Louisville; and shall not 
perhaps leave this little town (which we reached yes- 
terday) before the day after to-morrow. To-morrow, 
should the weather permit, I shall probably take a ride 
of several miles, with a Dr. Campbell, who has given 
me an invitation. 

In the mean time I remain, with the most sincere 
affection and regard, Yours truly. 

P. S. I am anxious to reach St. Louis— where I hope 
to hear from home, and from several of my friends. 



316 

St. Ltmi$ t June 11, 1- 
My Dear Friend: We reached this city two d 
ago, — having hi i passage of ten da] i the 

mouth o£ the Ohio — a distane !y about 178 

Although Interested in being on riu ry whei 

upon b< sring Br m our friei d it did 

not come within the plan of the e\ 

una\ nouth of tl. uri. 

I had the ph;i Bnd b I >m my n ii 

nl, \s itii yours of tl,< L8t FoUl 

r be 
prou 

indi d I p r >te igain I 

..it mj 
rt, that I 
thing like returning health; and \ not 

irthen to tl n. 

Th rable .Mr. i 

v. I 1 1 - I • : | 

t». In I 

i i red 111! ■ 

thing be found, ht i»<- his on d. It tux 

that a few, i I marked for n 

liim,— 1 

! it had pirated from him his 

blisb 
inde] id, with 

i my 1. .1 tti.it } 

mm:— and thai he should contini the 

Love be had for it, — i 
tinue to furnish me with descriptions, and sp< 
to be published as I migl inder fa I 

authority. As thi> wafl the first int . many in- 

quiries, which I in to mail 1. * * * 



317 

In a letter received by Mr. Say, yesterday, from 
Prof. Silliman, he sends his compliments to me, for 
Botanical communications, which he has now in the 
press (May 14th). 

I will now just mention to you, in confidence, that I 
have too much reason to fear that our steam boat will 
not answer, agreeably to the sanguine expectations 
formed of her: and I am not alone in the possession of 
this opinion. It is doubted, I find, by many, whether 
any steam boat can be constructed so as to navigate 
with safety and advantage such a river as the Missouri. 
But this boat, — hastily constructed, and built entirely of 
unseasoned timber, — is almost daily in want of repairs ; 
and is so leaky and wet, that we have not a dry locker 
for our clothes. A great part of my stationary has been 
wet, and a portion of it entirely lost. It will be with 
the utmost difficulty that I shall save the specimens I 
may collect.* The Secretary of War was informed, 
that in ten days from the time of our leaving Pittsburg, 
we should be in St. Louis ! You know when we left 
Pittsburg. From that day until our arrival here, not a 
moment was granted to the Scientific Corps, except 
from accidents, — as in repairing,, taking in wood, &c. 

We shall hardly see the Missouri under three weeks; 
which is our place of beginning: and thus, the best part 
of the season is taken up in reaching the real starting 
point. Not a keel-boat % nor the heaviest laden steam 
boat, but what gets along much faster than we do. I 
hope these fears of mine — with other fears that I could 
mention— may never be realized. But I shall say 
nothing more on matters of this kind, now. 

I have read to my colleagues that part of your letter, 
in which you hope they are all sufficiently stimulated to 
do their duty, &c. &c. I think I can safely vouch for 

*Mr. Say makes the same complaint. 

27* 



318 

the zeal of all ; and I fondly hope that I shall not, 
myself lag hi behind. Dot, for tli. >n,at 1 

high expectation* ought not to 1 ■• 1. Should my 

tth continue to improre, as it has don< 
. I may hope soon to ie< 10 as to attend fliUy 

and Dtly to my poi With best wist* 

:i,iin sincerely yours. 
r. 

v tiling I ir. 



St. ( 1819. 

i Itb, and I beli 

• • ss, as u • 1 
i m tin l.iin r — I 

I 

although I I k (with- 

out referring I | with Uing 

'i it nt 

alarmed 

I 
i 

with ta- 
ring w i 
silicon, i • wad the swell 

pain ,Nalk 

in a m still I the 

want i I 

tngth. 

I think it that I i 

Louis, 1 think, ■ new genus. Its habil i I 

but its [omentum remai distinct Indeed, I d 



319 

whether it can be called a^lomcntum ;— and it differs, 
also, most remarkably from the seed-vessel of any 
papilionaceous plant I ever remember to have seen : 
and yet its exterior covering (which separates by a fissure 
running from base to apex, on both sides,) enclosing 
the true seed-vessel, has the peculiar smell of the pea, 
and other plants of that order. The true seed-vessel is 
2-celled andl-valved : the seeds (which may pass well 
enough for papilionaceous,) adhering to the surface of 
the valve by capillary umbilical cords (I at present call 
them,) of considerable length. The seed-vessel, when 
the seeds are ripe, is almost globular. Before wither- 
ing, it has the appearance of the May apple, and is 
more than half its size. I have made out a description 
of it, as far as I have seen it, — and Mr. Bradbury has 
promised to attend to the flower, and communicate an 
account of it to me. I have also plenty of ripe seeds. 
It ought, perhaps, to be called Bradburya. 

Mr. Bradbury brought me, a few clays after, another 
outre plant — habit of Astragalus exactly, — but with 
flower and young fruit, both of which seem to differ 
from Astragalus ; but the seed-vessel is too young for 
investigation. It is as hispid as the fruit of the Geum 
Virginianum, This, Mr. B. is to describe and send to 
me.* 

I believe I hinted to you in my last letter, that our 
boat did not perform as well as we could wish. She 
has done much better since we left St. Louis; and I 
hope I shall be able to save all my specimens. 

I have always regretted that I did not request you to 
write to St. Louis frequently. A letter might reach me 

[*Compare these brief and hasty descriptions, with those species 
of Astragalus described by Tcrrey & Gray, in the section "Le- 
gumes ovate, thick and Jit shy ," in the first volume of the Flora of 
North America, pp. 331 — 2.] 



320 



on our return down, which will be before winter com- 
mences. In great haste, I remain ft 

Wr proceed bo-monow morning place. 



I anklin, (Missouri TrrJ July 22, 1819. 

Ml Dl : I have at last the mortification to 

inform yon, without tion, th, im boal b not 

Calculated i'nr r.\[)I(»riliL r . II- 

tirely oYspaii ici*« -ss on tin- river ; but persists in 

thinking that she prill ■■»! in th all 

tin- southern i rogrcss 

this boat, since ourentrance into tin- rirer, tittle opp 

tunitv to do a 

thing. 

\\o<m! ,in.: In short, not one mo- 

I IX nt I 

that could and the mot! pro 

ti"i passed by. I oBdent I c 

looted more in «»■ ; - 1 1 Khan I 

havi here in a month; — beside the loss th, 

from the \\( at and COBfiO -oanl tl, 

I* too b So 

mode of trai i Hi; poorly calcu 

isti : and besides, it e to gorern- 

niriit — the least i 
retting, 

Tins place ii abont wi sMles abore the mouth of 
Missouri, — which distance wt have been about 01 
month in accomplishing. Y< u naaj conclude, that tra- 
velling thus alow by srater, the Naturalists irould be 
enabled to walk on ahoie, and collect much. This was 
attempted, at St. Charles. A pack-horse was proem 
for BO dollars ; and If OSS1 p, Seymoub, and 

Pbali, set out by land. No arrangement was made for 



321 

joining the boat under a week. They accomplished no 
more than they would have done on board the boat; 
and suffered excessively with thirst and heat, in passing 
burning prairies, where no water was to be found : and 
to crown their misfortunes, their horse broke away from 
them, — and having no means to recover him, were 
obliged to carry their camp equipage upon their backs 
until they joined the boat. Young Peale has ever since 
been confined, with inflammation in his feet. 

I was in hopes in this letter to have given you my 
opinions fully and fairly ; but I find I have not strength, 
nor leisure. The mail closes presently ; and I feel my- 
self too much indisposed to write, or to think much. 

The steam boat system, I am confident, must be 
abandoned. Much opposition will be made to it by 
Maj. Biddle, Sec. I fear Maj. Long will persist, as the 
projector of the system, to his own injury. I should 
wish him to have the command of the exploring expe- 
dition, in any thing but a steam boat. He will attempt 
to ascend the river, this season, to the Council Bluffs, 
and then return to Washington. 

I remain here until I recruit— if to recruit be my lot — 
where I may do more than by continuing with the boat. 
I shall return, perhaps, with Maj. Long in October (ac- 
cording to agreement) home via New Orleans. He will 
return in a keel boat — leaving the steam boat behind. 

I have much more to say; — but mast conclude with a 
hope that I shall be able to write more clearly and fully 
in a short time. I remain, my dear friend, ever yours, 

W. BALDWIN. 



This was the last letter received from my estimable 
friend. On the 26th of October, I received the following: 
Franklin, Howard County, M. T. Sept. 15, 1819. 

Sir: It is my painful duty to inform you of your 
friend Wx. Baldwin, M. D. who died on the first inst. 



322 

at my house. He was not able to proceed on the 89 
ploring expedition, and remained here till he died. He 
ted me to transmit his private papers to Mrs- 
Baldwin, and the botanical QOtea tu J If and 

/. Counts, which vrill be done so soon as 

practicable.* 

[ * Those nates never came to my hand*. I hare always u nJcrstood 
that t! Long, to the late Mr. < 

fa :i li M« i to DM I 

i tli.it \,iu had some time 

ii Dr. BAUD He! he had men' it it was hia 

ITtfh, t!> take the aupe nn Wndence 

of his Manotcripta U li< He said to me in hia In 

ulii.li whs ■ . that his Botani- 

l should be sent to \<»u, ai. vate onea 4o me/* 

I In n«>t beetil myself aw 

looki I securing, |] bat aa 

Ik myself, as being entitled to take 

//. Ifrlua, I may remark, that alth 
Mr*,Huj'\viN rapes ted me it was the wish I 

should have such rht desire, — I 

the 
beat duej eVoold 1* made i i theit benefit: and as I 

OOal Ebftd to pay aa much for it M I thought it waa wortt 

taki a.U ant:i-f . r.».sjty, — or in any degree 

to imp. u. iN.iftcrwar R ith the 

view, as h* sold me, i phia Academy of 

Natur.il Bcia n ce e, it I am not mi n r. his repreeee- 

Hafrsj $old it to the late Rev, Mr. Be* /., — who finally 

bequeathed it to the Philadelpbie Academy.] 

[fThoae papers (whirh arc now in uV possession of my friend 
Dr. Touhkt.) I haw- since had an opportunity to examine: and, 
although replete with materials which misfit have been turned to 
good eecount by Dr. B. himself — had his life l>ceil spared — they arc, 
as ho supposed, in too crude and imperfect a state to be used with 
much advantage, by other hands.] 



323 

Tire Scientific Expedition has proceeded without a 
Botanist. The field for Botany in the Western region is 
great. I trust that our 'Government will supply the 
place of the Doctor,— so that the Expedition may pro- 
ceed regularly, the next spring. 

N. B. Please transmit to me all the Doctor's Botanical 
works, which may be published, as soon as they come 
from the press. 

I informed Mrs. Baldwin of the death of the Doctor, 

some time previous. Very respectfully, sir, 

Your obedient servant, 

JOHN J. LOWRY. 

Dr. William Darlington, ") 
West Chester, Penna. _> 



At the ensuing session of Congress, Mrs. Baldwin 
petitioned for a pension, to aid in the support of her 
destitute little family ; and, at her request, I addressed 
the following letter to the Chairman of the Committee 
to whom the Petition was referred. 

TO THE HON. N. SILSBEE, CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE 
ON NAVAL AFFAIRS. 

Congress -Hall, January 31, 1820. 

Sir: Having presented the petition of Mrs. Baldwin, 
widow of the late Doctor Baldwin, of the U. S. Navy, 
— and having been intimately acquainted with the Doc- 
tor, and the nature of his services, — I beg leave to offer 
a few remarks, relative to the claim of the petitioner, to 
the Committee of which you are Chairman. 

A brief history of the services of Doctor Baldwin is 
set forth in the petition, — for the correctness of which, 
if the Committee have any doubts, they are respectfully 
referred to the Naval Department. 



324 

Aft<r hit return from South America, he obtain' 
furlough m mtof bu health) — as I have on 

d. I know his health * 

Winn fhc 

v thai j 
unt of ln> extraordim ilificationa as 

vigoed U) him, 
1st. Hi • ser- 

1 him to engag 
light h.! i u it h great propri< tj . 1 1 

in the di : the 

• i<> u bicfa he uas buI nfirmed 

. and hi : his death, 

mkhn, in the Missouri : 
on r, nit 

who, in my httl 
I and [ : the < 

ask 

By the statement <»i th< 

a aj.p that a nu 
enjoy the aid of govern moot: and while! j >see 

such Ihov-, I u ill lh.it 

no man who was <v-r in the M 
i -!ily m- 

and i 

ier Inst it be cited, in which <«»ngress 

taken charge of I 
of th ition 

and maintenance, during their minority; but I deem it 
nnii' tumerate them I could not, 

m calling the attention of th 
mittee to the c< i of the little orphans of mj 



325 

parted friend : and I am sure they will not only excuse 
my interference, but will take such order thereon as jus- 
tice and propriety may dictate. I am, sir, with the 
highest respect, your obedient servant, 

WM. DARLINGTON. 



The Committee did not deem It expedient to grant 
the prayer of the petioner .; — although the pension sys- 
tem has been carried, subsequently, to a very considera- 
ble extent. Some years afterwards, Mrs. B. somehow 
got the impression, that the pension laws of the United 
States embraced the case of herself and daughters ; and 
she wrote to me, requesting a testimonial of the Doctor's 
character and services,— in order that she might again 
apply to the government, for the aid that had hitherto 
been withheld. I sent her the following; and that is 
the last I have heard on the subject. I apprehend, 
however, it has all been in vain, 

TO MRS> HANNAH M. BALDWIN. 

West Chester, December 13, 1836. 
Dear Madam: Yours of the 8th instant, was duly 
received: and whilst I am still apprehensive that you 
have been misinformed, relative to the probability of 
any pension law meeting the case of your family, — I 
can truly say, that I should be gratified to find myself 
mistaken. Few medical men, in our service, have 
done so much to enhance the scientific reputation of 
the country, as Doctor Baldwin ; and it would be highly 
gratifying to see the government manifesting a just 
sense of his merits, by extending aid to his bereaved 
family. The professional services of the doctor must 
be perfectly well known at the Department : and there 
can be few intelligent persons in the United States who 

28 



are not aware of his zealous and unremitting exer 

in the cause of Science. If my hum). ! n be 

of any avail, on this occasion, I may add — anil 1 take 

rare Id doing so — that I ha bad the 

bappi to be acquainted with any D a more 

amiable and upright character, — more faithful hi the 
discharge of his duti .— i more z 

the ii. md the welfiue oi 

.lures. 
Wishing every racci a, and to the chQdren of 

my lamented friend, I remain, very respectflilly v yoiir 
I obedient, WM, DAKL; 



NOTICES OF EAST FLORIDA, 

And the Sea Coast of the State of Georgia : 
IN A SEEIES OF LETTERS TO A FRIEND IN PENNSYLVANIA. 



BY WILLIAM BALDWIN, M. D. 

With an Appendix containing a register of the weather, 
and a Calendar ium Florae, kept at St. Mary's.* 



LETTER I. 

Riceborough, November 20, 1816. 
Having had an attack of pulmonary disease, during 
my residence in Savannah the last summer, which re- 
duced me to a state of great debility, I have determined 
to adopt the only plan of treatment which I have found 
successful : that is, travelling on foot. With the success 
of a former excursion in restoring me to health, after 
this formidable disease had shattered my constitution in 
such a manner as nearly to preclude all expectation of 
recovery, I believe you are acquainted. Already do I 
feel an increase of strength and animation, and I begin 
to look round for objects calculated to interest or amuse 
me. This is by no means the most interesting season 

[*The above is the Title which Dr. B. proposed to give to his 
Epistolaiy Sketches: but which were left unfinished.] 



for botanical trav^Uir no portion of the year 

entirely destitute 't botanical i in this southern 

country. I rejoice to learn that you h, ur 

attention I y. To furnish jrou with Lnl >n 

that may be important, on thi ny 

other subj< cl relating to this country — will 

We \> fl nnah J ad am 

here ft mm:. Nothinj occur* 

on the n ay. The Vj >w, 

made b handsome display i I i fruit, 

the o .11 this ornan 

tree, north of th ] 

\\ i.i.i am B I called, by bin . ^ 

.No credit has 1 im for tl 

CO\ nt, by any BUl t I 

ha\ Tar fruit 

as large astl nut* 1 fJitglam , Willd.); 

lold in the Bavani rket, under tie 

<><reeche I • <t ; 

The P —which 

bj that bed Botanist,— is still il< 

ing, [1 lently more tl ht, 
including the raceme ; and th< 

more than half the ten a. Th 

i w hit purp] MriiLi . In 
his 1 . has confounded it with the P. ntiricun 

— which i itfncl plant All t 

lily, thai I hav m a bit! 

— ftheP. 'Iba 

has I' puted valuable in the cure of tin* bite of 

nomous serpents: That of the P. I — whicl 

fusiform, and of a beautiful yellow color — is in; 

bitter, am! led to. 



8H 

Of Savannah, and some of the productions in its vi- 
cinity, I may speak in a future letter. We crossed the 
Great Ogeeche on a good pile bridge, erected by a Mr. 
Hill, lately deceased, — who for many years kept an 
excellent house of entertainment on the north bank of 
the river. It is fourteen and a half miles to the south- 
ward of Savannah. By the road side, near this place, I 
observed the Leonurus Cardiaca, — which I found, upon 
inquiry, had been brought from the North and planted 
here. Is this plant indigenous in any part of North 
America! I have seen it on the Brandywine, in ths 
State of Delaware, in situations remote from cultiva- 
tion : But this does not prove that it was not introduced 
at some former period, — as other plants are known to 
have been. Some exotics become naturalized with 
great facility, — so that it has now become extremely 
difficult to ascertain the precise number that may have 
been originally introduced from abroad. We certainly 
have a few plants which are likewise found in the old 
world; but the number is probably much fewer than 
was formerly supposed. 

On the south side of the river, is an extensive swamp, 
and cause-way leading across it, upwards of two miles 
in length. On this cause-way, and in its ditches, are 
several beautiful plants, which are quite circumscribed 
in their habitat. Among them is the Iris hexagona, of 
Walter, — and the Xectris aquatica. The latter, I have 
only seen here, and at Augustine creek, on the Augusta 
road, ten miles to the westward of Savannah. 

Riceborough is situated on the south side of North 
Newport river, at the head of the navigation,— about 
thirty-five miles south of Savannah, and eleven south- 
westerly from Sunbury. It is the capital of Liberty 
countv: but remains to be a small unhealthy village. 

28* 



330 

LETTER II. 

S n&ury, W 22, 1816- 

Wo were induced to turn ■ this pi 

sake of viaitin is Li 

saonall] d who hi 

to the plaotfl i I und tfa a 

thin the li >wn, iii 

last [1 i- -nli .,11 with the 

Linnaean d it 1 mention thi 

Dative of 
continent hi 

Thi' 

\ . id a 

► f I am satisfi v 

mon ; my 
/\ . is, doubtli ss, ;i 

/ • ami 

nd, Bill .Mr. 

Elliott, hi his . v < . the nam 

. 
find a plant d 
, but furnished n\ il . — when, at th 

time, thr account "t' it is closed by giving i' 
/ " - /\ a 

generally much taller, but m< r, than the 

- 
he name <»f g But I w ould Imld the 

naim , w hen 'lv im] 

dot H y % that ili»l 

not convey an indi- 

viduals to which i applied. It i> thr dutj 

America mists, who t, to cor. 

•It int oa thr Alitamaha, in the immediate ricinil 

Darien. [ found it these, in October, 181*. 



331 

their own nomenclature. I humbly conceive, that it 
would not only be more honorable, but would contribute 
much more to a correct knowledge of our productions, 
to sit down, and carefully examine, describe and name 
them, than to puzzle our brains to ascertain by whom 
they may have been imperfectly noticed. Let us not, 
in our zeal to do justice to our trans-atlantic brethren, 
be guilty of injustice to ourselves. Whenever we can 
fairly recognize our plants by their descriptions, let us 
honestly acknowledge it: but we ought, surely, so far 
to assert our independence, as to rely upon ourselves 
in all doubtful cases.* 

Sunbury is one of the most pleasantly situated towns, 
on the sea-coast of Georgia. It stands op an elevated 
plain, commanding a view of St. Katharine's, and 
other Islands. 

I have nothing further to communicate from this 
place, — and what 1 have communicated is of little im- 
portance : but it has served to amuse me in the intervals 
of interesting comersation with my ingenious friend, 
Le Coxte, — and the examination of plants. 



LETTER ITT. 



Sand Hilh, November 24, 1816. 
The country between Riceborough and Fort Barring- 
ton, on the Alatamaha, remains to be principally an 
uncultivated wilderness, — furnishing a wide and varied 
i'wld for the Lovers of Botany. Although in general 
low, there is considerable inequality of surface, — and a 

[*Thc best male, unquestionably, of settling all difficulties res- 
pecting our df.vblful ]>Lnits, is that adopted by Dr. A. Ghay: 

namely, to examine the ILrhoria of those Botanists who have pub- 
lished names, or dc>criptions of them, — and ascertain, from the 
specimens themselves, what is intended, in each C 



332 

corresponding diversity of soil, which renders this 
tract of country peculiarly interesting to the Botan 

About four miles BOOth of Riceborouirh. and one 1 
to the eastward of the road, i- / —the seat of 

- Le Cohtb. >ssess,here, 

ii large and ralnable Kicc Plantal i Bull-* 

sua i ; — of South 

itioo t< 
of Natural History, mock maybe with confide 
I am indebted to them t< »r much valu 
formation; and Imp.- it will not be Long I 
will in better known in the literary 
Th ■ u this plantation, dutiful 

/' I . /..)• It inhabit Pine 

1 . in the \ B imp,— end 

shewn I 

Poi U ofoeotif, arutis, an 

ibus majoribu>. m$ t intrrioribus 

ramuli flnribus ter- 

minal i!>i. . Floret 

M ■ .* It i 

terminal / —which 

. oo tli' oate bi 

inhabit tin >f Geor 

P l M, W'illd.), P. pyg- 

. and P. rim-r w 

\>u— -who found them on 
K>Uth si amaha. I ha ily a 

sry plant of the pygmaea, at the Sand Hills, on 

*The gt ona an J Porcelia. perhaps approach each other 

too nearly to . with j not seen the 

fruit o( this plant, up. mi which the essential ch s rsctw of the genus 
depends; but I shall leave it, for uV . along with its conge- 

ners. It b about the height of the grandiflora: its leaves come 
nearer the pygmaca, — but arc nam> 



333 

side of the river. Both are common in the vicinity of 
St. Mary's, and occupy the most sterile description of 
Pine barrens, — where the sand is coarse and deep. 
The latter, which was first noticed and described by 
Walter, is much more generally diffused ; and is found 
in clayey oak land, mostly in the neighborhood of water. 

The Mylocariwn ligustrinum, of Willdenow, abounds 
here. Further north, it is rarely seen ; and I suspect its 
northern boundary is Savannah river. This fine shrub 
was doubtless first noticed by Mr. Baktram, — who found 
it on his way to Augusta, near the city of Savannah, 
where it has since been seen.* Seven, eight, or ten 
feet, is its usual height, here ; but I have seen it, at the 
head of Turtle river, between the Alatamaha and Sa« 
tilla, thirty feet high, and one foot in diameter near the 
base. 

Some of the swamps bordering upon the Alatahama, 
arc ornamented with the Pinckncya pubens, of Michaux. 
In a future letter, I may attempt to prove that this plant 
is a Cinchona. At present, I will only observe that it, 
also, was discovered by our venerable friend Bartram.| 
He found it near Fort Barrington, on the Darien road, 
along with the Gordonia Franklini. 

In a Savanna, bordering upon the Sand Hills, we 
found a singular variety of the "Ogeeche Lime." — 
Although scarcely exceeding three feet in height, it was 
loaded with fruit of as large a size as any I had ever 
seen. As this variety grows on dry land, it would an- 
swer best for cultivation, — and would be at once orna- 
mental and useful. 

A chain of Sand Hills runs parallel with the Alata- 
maha, for many miles in extent; — an extensive swamp 
intervening between them and the river. From the 

♦Travels, p. 31. 
jTravels, p. 16. 



abov 

and find at - i entire change pro- 

ducti r which I am too n ay account, 

at present Here iog, as I 

went don d, and took up our lodgi 

twenty inii v thr 

I to \n rit' tlii^ 

A direct road in tin- d d has not yet to 

to St 
whk 
ally Mill musquil 

tli.mkful that \sr ha :»d a 

shelter in the w ild 



. 



7, W6. 
The distance from our 1 on tli*- Band Hill 

led the Al.it. una! 

aboi 

I hai mentioi /' B 

but it would puzzle ■ o find any Fbrt, b 

The ren lone i Wble, in the ra I ■ hum- 

. 
long the 11 roducti 

. /' fganum art) 
turn, and 8tipulicida m ~ ' ••im-h 

are found in the middle dis I I 

tin 1 sea-coast JS Rheum} 

and 1 ha I by Mr. I. I the 

root of the former ia em] as a mild cathi 

the people, where it abounds, l •• ith Pa 

thai the P tgonum oriiemhimw^ and jxtlygamum. 
merely i I 



335 

always flares albi, — and is frequently more than two feet 
in height. That the northern plant should be annual, 
and the southern one perennial, is by no means extraor- 
dinary. We have many examples of this kind; — some 
of which I shall point out to you, in the course of this 
correspondence. 

On the south side of the river, the road passes, for 
about a mile, through a low rich bottom, covered with 
heavy timber, — consisting of Oak, Ash, Gum, Maple, 
and a various undergrowth of fine shrubbery. Here, 
also, is found the Heliotropium Indicum, — which has not, 
hitherto, been noticed in Georgia, We rise from this 
rich plain into the ordinary Pine barren ; but, neverthe- 
less, find some vegetable productions that are not met 
with, north of the Alatamaha. The only plant I shall 
mention, here, is a new species of Hymenopappus, — 
which I first discovered in East Florida, near St. Mary's, 
in 1812.* I have called it H * * *. 

The Erianthus strictus, which I first discovered at 
Crooked River Bridge, in Camden county, grows plen- 
tifully at the head of Buffalo Creek, about halfway be- 
tween the two rivers. It delights in a moist, clayey 
soil; in which situations, only, it is to be found. It 
varies * * The nectary, in this genus, affords a most 
essential generic character, which ought unequivocally 
to separate it from its congeners, Saccharum, and An- 
dropogon: with the one, it has been confounded by 
Persoon and Pursh; and not clearly distinguished 
from the other, by the accurate and observing Dr. 
Muhlenberg. 

We reached a good house of entertainment, kept by 
Capt. Tyson, near the head of Turtle river, late on the 
evening of the 25th, nineteen miles from the Alata- 
maha. To obtain such quarters, it was necessary to use 

*It is found about 8 miles from the Ferry, and within one mile of 
the habitation of a Mr. Knox, who keeps a house of entertainment. 



336 

exertion : no other, of the two or thr passed carlv 

in the evening, tx ing known to us. L oing we 

crossed the Satilla tboutamile ab lace, 

and twenty- . fatigu 

eqjoy comfortable 
On , we find large 

» il,— calculated 
of rice and c< much is 

idy under i 

ilv sit; south bank i f the ri 

mile Movitli ; but 

village. r J 1 ten the Atlantic through 

Aiidri w*a Sound, od and J 

but the 
vess< ballon draft,— which will, of course, oj»« 

The h( 
built of p o< d; and the I lourl H . and 
neither erf them calcul 



LKTTER V 



• mber 28, 1616. 
Last evening we arrived here. ] anccfrom 

i lit 25 mil -• The count y limilar, — 

l>t that, u we appr ach the tea coast, it becoi 

rather more flat, ly and most 

remarkable of the new pr met w ith, a 

sing the Satilla, la the />. 'ia racemosa. T 
gant flowering Bhrub, in many places, coi i al- 

most the exclusive undergrowth, along with the Saw 

Palmetto fCkanun taj; and contributes much 

to cheer the gloom of the solitary Pine barren. O 
fine vegetables, which 1 have not seen further north, 



337 

also make their appearance, here : viz. Petalostemon 
carneum, and candidum, — with a new species of Slum, 
which I have called S. trilobum* This plant is still 
flowering: and I have collected seeds of the two Petalos- 
temons. Here I also found, three years ago, a new spe- 
cies of Psoraka, with simple leaves : Psoralea simplicifolia 
[P. virgata, Nutt. Torr. k Gray.] 

The Xyris family is numerous, here. This genus re- 
quires a revision. Among the species that have been 
long known, two or three appear to have been con- 
founded together. I hope at some future period to ar- 
range them. Xyris juncea, and X. cylindracea, two spe- 
cies, arc found here : the one, remarkable on account 
of its fistulous, round leaves ; the other, from its white 
flowers. 

We are now on the borders of the Lan d of Flowers; 
but not in the flowering season. Enough, however, 
may be seen, even now, to interest a Botanist from 
Pennsylvania. There has not been suflicient frost to de- 
stroy vegetation : and here and there, we behold a 
feeble flower out of season, along with others, — such as 
Houstonia rotundifolia, some species of Viola, &c. that 
may be seen ornamenting the forests and plains in 
every month of the year. 

The city of St. Mary's is situated in about the latitude 
of 30° N. and is about 12 miles west of the Bar, and six 
from Fcrnandina. It is regularly laid out, and may 
contain, at this time, six hundred inhabitants. In the 
time of its prosperity, at the commencement of the war, 

•Walter, in his Flora Caroliniana, has described an Oenanlhe 
teretifolia, — [or y Jiliformis? Titdcmannia teretifoJia, DC. Torr. and 
Gray.] — which is also found here. It differs a little, in the seed, 
from the genus S/u/n ,• but appears to me to be too closely allied, 
to be separated from it with propriety. My new plant would be an 
Ocnanthr, also, according to Waltkr : but I have agreed with Mr. 
Elliott to arrange both under the genus Sium. 

29 



338 

its population was little less than 800. Unfortunately, 
the site of this pleasant and healthy town is too low. — 
During the tremendous gale of the 16th and 17th of Sep- 
tember, 1813, it was almost totally inundated, — and 
must ever be liable to such casualties. It stands on a 
neck of land, between the water from which it lakes its 
name, and North river. The St. Mary's meanders 
terly, in front of the town, and for about one mile be- 
low,— when it abruptly bends to the North.* It runs in 
this direction half a mile, or upwards, when it a 
turns to the East, and empties intu Cumberland Sound, 
between Point Pctre on the north — the lOUthen 
mity of Georgia, — and a small [aland, OD the opposite 
shore of East Florida, The outlet to (he Atlantic or. 

ia a little to the southward Inl Pctrc,— 

bet w ee n the Islands of Cumberland and Amelia. It is 
singular that Mr. Haktkam, in fa I (page 26), 

should inform m that d *ommtn with 

the Atlantic "between the point! I Talbot 

[stands," — when we are c informed, at page 66, 

that Amelia [aland forms the Dorthern cape of St. Ma- 

r\ >. The error, ho we I by Morse, 

and other I Geographers, — and has thus been perpetuated. 

Having resided almost thn i in St. Ma 

appears something like tane, to re risk it: andt 
thing to be done, ia fe i call upon my old friends, — whom 
it gave me great pleasure to find In health and pros- 
perity, after haying experienced the trials and d 

incident to war. 

A British naval force, under the command of Admiral 
Cockburn, took possession of this town on the 13th of 
January, 1815, by capitulation, — no resistance being of- 
fered ; and evacuated it again on the — of February: 
without leaving the most favorable impressions of />' 

•From this bend of the ri\< r, \w have a handsome view of the 
Town, — which is less than one mile distant 



339 

ish honor, and generosity, on the minds of the inhabi- 
tants, — who were indiscriminately plundered of private 
properity to a large amount. 
But it is time to close this heterogeneous letter. 



LETTER VI. 



St, Mary's, December 4, 1816. 

The exercise of the body and mind, in travelling thus 
far, has greatly improved my health ; and the company 
of Dr. Cutter has added not a little to the pleasure and 
interest of this pedestrian excursion. We are now 
nearly ready to cross the St. Mary's, to wander we 
hardly know where, in the dominions of his Catholic 
Majesty. We have kept ourselves amused, since our 
arrival here,— not only in visiting our friends in the 
town, but in taking short excursions into the country. 
The weather continues delightful, — except that it is 
sometimes rather oppressively warm. The leaves have 
not yet universally fallen, from those plants which an- 
nually shed them. Of this character, is the Ilex prinoi- 
des, — which is predominant in the sandy, shrubby plains, 
of this vicinity. Its common height is about 6 or 8 feet ; 
and at this season, with its ripe crimson-colored fruit, 
makes a fine appearance. The berry of this species is 
considerably larger than that of any other I have seen ; 
and is not unpleasant to the taste, — possessing an agree- 
able sweet, along with a slight bitter. I have not ob- 
served it to be the food of any species of birds, — and 
hence the common opinion of its being poisonous; but 
I have eaten freely of it, with entire impunity. 

Since'I have mentioned this Ilex, I will make a few 
observations on the genus, — as well as on another ge- 
nus, to which it is closely allied. Mr. Elliott, who has 
been long an accurate and attentive observer of plants, 



340 

first suggested to me the propriety of uniting Ilex with 
Prinos ; — since which time, I have more particularly 
directed my views to the subject.* 

It is well known that the great Founder of the Sexual 
System adhered most strenuously to the number of the 
Stamina, in the formation of the Brsl half of b 
while, throughout, he appeared detennin 
some circumstance, or other, relating to tl por- 

tant organs, in lining the **s of 

cadi Class. Thus it bafl l" v,> n BUp . by some cf our 

more modern Botanists, tint the classification l 
rendered more artificial than nccc> families 

and i bero ise cl< 

lied ; — which n ily prod ment 

le student. It certainly . thai among the 

which i v- lv arranged in each 

of the al mina 

loubtful, w iih me, w b< 

they OUghl all tO I / . I //'.ra?J- 

drid % — ordivid twoclasse 

The P non in Pennsylvaniai 

I have net m en in I h But I 

which very much resembles it. The Sowers 

contain from 1 mina. with the 

Ilex print ind the Prinos amhi and all 

part with their I m autumn. Some < f the species, 

in this timision of the genus (as l would call it, on 
blending them together), posa ss another remarkable 

characteristic; — that ol furnished with W 

female Dowerson distinct plants: Or rather, the flow 

of the one are abortive, and those of the other proli 

[•Although Endliciif.r has kept thrso two genera tfistinrf, the 
reader eannot fail to remark how nearly vttbatim the . >ns of 

them are. One can ■CMCC lj I e more than a iub.grnus, or section, 
of the other. Dk Candolle, also, under Pnnos, asks — "a 
satis duTertV] 



341 

for in each, they retain the character of hermaphrodite! 
The Ilex prinoides affords an unvarying example of this 
remarkable exception to the genus. Although one plant 
uniformly proves abortive, its flowers are unequivocally 
hermaphrodite : i. e. we have the rudiments of a germ, 
and the stamina apparently perfect; but the flowers, 
nevertheless, prove uniformly abortive. The difference 
in the size and the appearance of the germ, is what 
most strikingly distinguishes the two plants, at the time 
of flowering. This appears to be the case with the new 
species, above mentioned, — and also with the Prinos 
ambiguus* But I would wish to examine them further, 
before I pronounce too positively. 

Taking every thing into consideration, I should be 
disposed to arrange these plants along with Cassine, in 
the class Pentandria. (May not some of them be true 
Cassines, and the residue Ilex? J. What ought the ge- 
nus to be — Ilex, Prinos, or Cassine 1 Further observa- 
tions may enable us to decide more correctly. 

I must not leave St. Mary's without noticing anew 

species of Scirpus, found in 1812. 1 have called it . 

♦ #**#** 

*Dr. Macbride, of Charleston, S. Carolina, is of opinion that the 
He j. prinoides and Prinos ambiguus run into each other: in short, 
that they are one plant, varied only by age — the young plant being 
the I lex j and the old one the Prinos, But I will venture to assert 
that they are distinct species, — each possessing strong and unvary- 
ing specific characters. In the form, size, and color of the fruit, 
they differ strikingly, — as well as in the leaves, manner of growth, 
and general facits, or habit. I think it highly probable that Wai- 
ter was the first to confound those two species. 

29* 



343 

LETTER VII. 

Fcrnandina, December 6, 1816. 
We arrived here at 4 o'clock this evening, in a pa< 
from St Mary's ; and i time in calling at the oilice 

of the Commandant, — to whom we had a »tro- 

duction from Mr , of St. otto- 

man was taking his Si left him, and waited upon 

Qeoeoe Claw, the Sunrej oroi 

an English gentleman bilitjr, of whom 

I shall ha\ r. 

rnandini a a high calca . the 

e of Amelia l land, and abou one n m ita 

nortl tntains about 600 inhabit 

and into impOI 

from the h 

i»ut it is more com 

l-nt , w. ll sh( Itei v E. w ii, 

Amelia [eland i- I s milea in Length, with am 

■ ■ 
be; indep ndei le to* ..bout 

twentj plant 

third i t this [aland 

. for the cul 
of Cotfc ii. These planters e 

as. Except 

the northern and 

and the [aland d, — with 

an undergrowth I rulata). 

The predominant shrub I ieda 

ferruginea, A*rigida t Purah. 4 \ , Willd. / 

ria raccmosa, /'rims glut . / ; inoi,lcs, I . iniwm 

frondoiUMy V. mncrophyilum. Fraa P, .\tl> lia porui">*i, M\. 

Lycium Carol inianum, and Beveral Varieties of dwarf 

•jL /trrmgimem, Wll ami others; hut I think Ji~ 

from fcrrugiucj. 



343 

Live oak ( Quercus virensj. A few plants of Ceratiola 
ericoides are found towards the southern extremity of the 
Island. 

Since I have mentioned some of the vegetable produc- 
tions of this Island, and among others, the Chamaerops 
serrulate, — I will make a few observations on this family 
of plants. Beside the one just mentioned, I am ac- 
quainted with three others : viz. Chamaerops Palmetto, C. 
hystrix, and C. acaulis, Mx. which is the Sabal minor of 
Adanson. These are all now arranged very correctly 
in the class Hcxandria, and order Tiigynia. I have 
never been able to discover any thing polygamous in 
any of them : nor do I know of sufficient characters in 
the latter species, to separate it from its congeners. 
The distinction drawn between a one-seeded berry and 
a one-seeded drupe, in this instance, is too nice for my 
comprehension, — particularly as I can see no difference 
from actual observation. The Chamaerops Palmetto is 
an elegant plant,— attaining, in Georgia, to the height of 
forty or fifty feet : and all its valuable uses have not 
been enumerated by Mr. Pursh. The tender shoot, at 
the extremity of the young plant, affords an article for 
the table, more sweet and delicious than cabbage ; — from 
which it has derived the name of "Cabbage tree/' After 
stripping off the leaves, a white delicate substance re- 
mains, resembling Asparagus, — but which may be ob- 
tained three or four inches in diameter, and two feet in 
length. It may be eaten raw; but when boiled, and 
dressed with butter, affords a nutritious and very agree- 
able article of diet. It is by no means generally known, 
that the young shoots of the Chamaerops scrrulata ("Saw 
Palmetto") are also eatable, — and are even more sweet 
and tender than the former. My knowledge of this 
fact was derived from the late Mrs. Catharine Miller,* 
of Dungeness, on Cumberland Island. This is gener- 

*Mrs. Miller wag formerly the wife of Gen. Nathaniel Greene. 



344 

ally a humble plant, with a short, crooked, prostrate 
m, from one to thi I in length : but in some situ- 

ations, — and particularly near the sea shore, — it , I 
to the height of 8 or 10 feet, and has an ornamental ap- 
pearance. It is rarely found north of Savannah river. 
The Choftk lis, of — which I would 

call ( only B] I 'ind 

in low, rich, su ampy land, suits the cultivation of 

Bice. Mr. PlTft8H Of it U ■ palm of "little 

b'aiity of use :" but whj uld be 

taken to a i of this beautiful ( mnotc 

ceive. CI rand along with the pi 

dlOg, — which If . w ith the I 

lioi singula! spines. It w« 

late Mr. John r i M tr the c 

mnali. Jr Bull-tOWD I 

the plantation < 

Although the i i f but or of picas' 

to interest or unuie, in l .us, 

or swamp\ — with 6 

1 o ve r c 1 b < » t ,i 1 1 y 1 n t . I b • n 

that all-b'-uiitiliil thed even the most 

w ith MIDI 

as well as um b,l, pi Who can behold tl 

Singular and bi -autiful It " w ith- 

out being charmed with ita splendor and fi <•, — or 

astonished at the faculty it possesses oying In- 

And tli Palmetto would prevent the 

wary, hungry traveller firon its 
To-morrow iw tgaia pursue our journey south. 

•The Corolla of tin- } lint ■S CI St W I t* iuu JOUf ■obsfSHClS, which 
effectually retains tins, anJ all other insects that alight upon it, until 
they perish: hence the name of Flycatcher. 



345 

LETTER VIII. 

Amelia Island, December 8, 1816. 

We left Fernandina yesterday morning about 11 
o'clock; not having been able to obtain our passport 
from Don Francisco Morales, the Commandant, at an 
earlier period, without breaking in upon his sleeping 
hours! 

The weather continuing warm and pleasant, we had a 
delightful ramble, for eleven miles, to the habitation of 
Capt. Robert Harrison, a wealthy Cotton Planter, who 
occupies one of the richest spots on the Island, within 
six miles of its southern extremity. We took a middle 
path, through the most barren part of the land, — as the 
season was not calculated to afford much novelty in the 
vegetable creation. A little before we reached the 
above mentioned plantation, we crossed near the head 
of an extensive swamp, — which bearing northerly, 
forms a small creek, that empties into Amelia Sound, 
on the north side of Fernandina (sec Bartram p. Go). 
In this swamp, is found an abundance of the Crlnum 
Floridanum, of Bartram, — the haves of which are still 
verdant. I have only once seen this plant in flower. It 
is a true Crinum; and comes pretty near the C. Ameri- 
canum, of Aiton ; but is probably a distinct species — 
noticed only by its discoverer. I have long wished for 
an opportunity to examine it more particularly, at the 
proper season. Mr. Bartram first noticed it on the 
Island of St. Simon's, near the town of Fredcrica. — 
It is still well known by the name of "White Lily i 1 ' by 
which it is distinguished from the Carina jlaccida, — 
known by the name of "Yellow Lily." This swamp 
also abounds with the Ilex Dahoon. Its clusters of red 
berries now make a fine display. This shrub attains to 
the height of 20 or 30 feet, and may be considered one 
of the most ornamental of this family of plants. 



31G 

I have spent most of this day in making collections 
of Fungi, — with some of annual plants: Among 

others, a sj P . which seems improperly to 

have been confounded with th< P. Jrtitfa, of Michaotl* 
The Monotropa unijtora Is still flowering, — an /'o/y- 

gosuon Hydro/riper : which bean evidence to the mild- 
ness of the cli 

To- i pursue our journey South, by 

ion of the Captain and l. 
family. But I cannot leave this [stand without express- 
ing how much I have been gratified with the unaffected 
hospitality i ots, win 

ami by non< re about to 

uainted hei L813j i ad shall 

ever rem w hat I ha 

of th( L6 . and morning 1 1 

that year: .1 // od character of 

u bich quently i i 

and other situations In and ring upon the Tropics. 

I Por .m account 1 1 this Huni 1 Dr. 

.Men; 15,— 24f 1-1 

***** 

['FofcsgM thr Voi ti i.iott.] 



[CAETEKA I r.] 



CORRIGENDA. 
A few typographical errors occur in the preceding pages, — most 
of which the intelligent reader will readily comprehend. It may be 
well, however, to indicate the following: — 
Page. Line. 

16. 7. for "claviculosa" read clavulosa. 

107. 19-20 for "Adiantum-nigrum, read Asplenium Adiantum- 



112.- 
120.- 
166.- 
169.- 
173.- 



nigrum. 






4. for "39th," 


read 


29th. 


7. " "1813," 


M 


1814. 


24. « "Fumaria," 


U 


F.<naria. 


-13. " "Ogochee," 


M 


Ogechee. 


■24. " "spinosissima" 


M 


spinosissimum, 


-26. " "violacea" 


M 


violacco. 



177. 6. after "correspondence," insert — of. 

183. 17. for "May," read June. 

191. 3. " "pumili" <: pumila. 

210. 15-16. "yuccoefolium" " yucca ffolium. 

123. last line but one — "Ctratiole" read Ceraliola. 

216. Erase the brackets from the Note, at the foot of the page. 

The Note is Dr. B's. 



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